Cell Phone Addiction
Ad
PsychGuides independently researches, tests, and reviews products and services which may benefit our readers. Where indicated by "Medically Reviewed by", Healthcare professionals review articles for medical accuracy. If you buy something through our links, or engage with a provider, we may earn a commission.

student addiction to their phones

Table of Contents


Smartphone Addiction Facts

Although cell phones allow individuals to have unlimited access to information and to connect with others in a way otherwise thought impossible, there are many harmful and disturbing effects of smartphone dependence. Cell phone addiction, sometimes referred to as problematic mobile phone use, is a behavioral addiction thought to be similar to that of an Internet, gambling, shopping, or video game addiction and leads to severe impairment or distress in one’s life.

With the widespread accessibility of cell phones at a younger age now, teenagers are especially prone to developing an addiction to their cell phones or social media. Whether you or a loved one suffers from a cell phone addiction, there is hope for recovery.

Below are some more statistics associated with smartphone use:


Signs and Symptoms of Smartphone Addiction

Some major signs and symptoms of smartphone addiction include:

Don't Face This Alone. Professional Online Therapy Can Help You.

Find The Right Therapist For You Today

Learn more about the Signs and Symptoms of Cell Phone Addiction >>


Teens and Cell Phone Addiction

teen on her cell phoneTeens are extremely vulnerable to developing a cell phone addiction. The human brain isn’t fully developed until about 25 years of age. Adolescents who become dependent on their smartphones could experience negative alterations in brain development.

If you’re concerned about your teen’s problematic cell phone use, there are many different treatment options available. Call the number above to speak to a treatment specialist immediately.

Learn more about Teen Cell Phone Addiction >>


How to Help a Loved One with a Smartphone Addiction

If you’ve been upset or frustrated by your loved one’s excessive phone use while in your presence, you are not alone.

Your loved one may suffer from a cell phone addiction or nomophobia, the fear of being without a mobile phone, if he or she exhibits these signs or symptoms:

This is not a complete list of signs and symptoms but it includes some of the common signs that a loved one may be suffering from a smartphone addiction. If you worry that your loved one’s cell phone use is problematic, don’t hesitate to call the number above to learn about recovery options.

Learn more about How to Help a Loved One with a Smartphone Addiction >>


Treatment for Addiction

There are various types of treatment for those with a cell phone addiction. This could be as simple as making rules for yourself and downloading apps on your phone to cut down usage. Or, for more severe cases, there are different therapy methods and treatment centers available.

Learn more about Treatment Options for Cell Phone Addiction >>


References

  1. (n.d.). Retrieved December 2, 2015, from http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/materialism
  2. Cell Phone Addiction Similar to Compulsive Buying and Credit Card Misuse, According to Baylor Study. (2012, November 28). Retrieved November 30, 2015, from http://www.baylor.edu/mediacommunications/news.php?action=story&story=125458
  3. Andreassen, C. (2015). Online Social Network Site Addiction: A Comprehensive Review. Curr Addict Rep Current Addiction Reports, 2015(2), 175-184. doi:10.1007/s40429-015-0056-9
  4. Roberts, J., Yaya, L., & Manolis, C. (2014). The invisible addiction: Cell-phone activities and addiction among male and female college students. Journal of Behavioral Addictions, 3(4), 254-265. doi:10.1556/JBA.3.2014.015
  5. Trends in Consumer Mobility Report. (2015). Retrieved November 30, 2015, from http://newsroom.bankofamerica.com/files/doc_library/additional/2015_BAC_Trends_in_Consumer_Mobility_Report.pdf

Additional Resources

As advocates of mental health and wellness, we take great pride in educating our readers on the various online therapy providers available. PsychGuides has partnered with several thought leaders in the mental health and wellness space, so we can help you make informed decisions on your wellness journey. PsychGuides may receive marketing compensation from these companies should you choose to use their services.

PsychGuides may receive marketing compensation from the above-listed companies should you choose to use their services.

Myndfulness App

Designed to Help You Feel Better Daily

Myndfuless App Rating

Download Now For Free

Learn More >