The recent explosion of iPhones, Androids, and other smartphones has provided people with the ability to access the entirety of the Internet on-the-go and at any given moment. 90% of adults in America own a cell phone,1 and while this may not be a problem for many people, some individuals develop an addiction to their mobile devices.
90% of American adults own a cell phone.
Cell phones are constantly being improved by expanding upon their functionalities, which in turn increases the likelihood of overuse and addiction. According to the PEW Research Center, 67% of smartphone owners have admitted to checking their phone for calls or messages when their phone didn’t vibrate or ring. This is one major sign of cell phone dependence and should serve as a warning to cell phone owners.
Signs and Symptoms of Cell Phone Addiction
Although cell phone addiction is not yet listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), research has compared it to gambling addiction, which has clearer diagnostic criteria and is included in the DSM-5.At least 4 of the following signs and symptoms are thought to comprise criteria for cell phone addiction, and the problematic cell phone overuse must cause significant harm in the individual’s life:
- A need to use the cell phone more and more often in order to achieve the same desired effect.
- Persistent failed attempts to use cell phone less often.
- Preoccupation with smartphone use.
- Turns to cell phone when experiencing unwanted feelings such as anxiety or depression.
- Excessive use characterized by loss of sense of time.
- Has put a relationship or job at risk due to excessive cell phone use.
- Tolerance.
- Need for newest cell phone, more applications, or increased use.
- Withdrawal, when cell phone or network is unreachable.
- Anger.
- Tension.
- Depression.
- Irritability.
- Digital eye strain.
- The pain and discomfort associated with viewing a digital screen for over 2 hours.
- Eyes begin to burn and itch.
- Blurred vision.
- Neck problems.
- Also known as “text neck,” which refers to neck pain resulting from looking down at cell phone or tablet for too long.
- Increased illnesses due to germs
- Car accidents.
- Many people believe that they can multitask and use their phones while driving, but this causes significant impairment and puts the driver and others on the road in danger.
- Research has revealed that texting and driving can be just as dangerous as drinking and driving.
- Male infertility.
- Preliminary studies have revealed that cell phone radiation may decrease sperm count, sperm motility and viability.
- Sleep disturbances.
- Cell phone addiction has been linked to an increase in sleep disorders and fatigue in users.
- Using your cell phone before bed increases the likelihood of insomnia.
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- Depression.
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
- Relationship problems.
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- Car accidents.
Overuse of your cell phone or smartphone can result in a number of different physical problems that may cause permanent damage or be difficult to treat, including: