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A study has revealed an increase in people with nomophobia or “no mobile phone phobia,” a kind of anxiety people experience when they are not holding their phones.
According to researchers from Sungkyunkwan University in Seoul and City University of Hong Kong, the increase in smartphone features that can be personalized and customized is causing people to be attached to their phones. Some people even see their phones as an extension of themselves.
Researchers added that the anxiety can affect anyone, but those who store, share, and access personal information on their phones are more susceptible.
Nomophobia symptoms include checking one’s smartphone obsessively, being unable to switch it off, and taking it to the shower. Physical symptoms like wrist and neck pains are also reported by some users. In another study, researchers found that some people experience increased heart rate and blood pressure when separated from their phones.
Psychology professor Mark Griffiths, who was not involved in both studies, suggests that nomophobia may be caused by the culture of “fomo” or “fear of missing out” on social media. He said that some people feel worried without their phones because they cannot be updated about what is happening on their social media accounts.
In conclusion, the researchers suggest that users should enjoy the benefits of smartphones without being fully dependent on them. To prevent phone addiction that leads to nomophobia, experts recommend setting a specific time for smartphone usage. They also suggest banning smartphone use in certain places, such as the bathroom and the dining area. More importantly, they encourage people to engage in real human contact instead of connecting with people through social media.