The increasing prevalence of smartphones in our daily lives has brought about a concerning issue – smartphone addiction. Smartphone addiction, along with internet addiction, is considered a technological addiction that involves excessive use and human-machine interaction. In a previous study, we identified four features of smartphone addiction: compulsion, functional impairment, tolerance, and withdrawal. These characteristics are also observed in internet addiction. However, the relationship between internet addiction and smartphone addiction remains unclear.
In a survey conducted by the Institute for Information Industry in Taiwan, it was found that 58.7% of the Taiwanese population aged 12 or above were smartphone users. One of the key features of smartphones is the ability to use various internet-based mobile applications or “apps” such as online games, social networks, and messengers. Due to its portability, smartphone use tends to be shorter in duration compared to computer-based internet use. Studies suggest that smartphone addiction is associated with excessive frequency of use rather than the duration. Short use periods can result in distractions, leading to functional impairment, such as vehicle accidents. Furthermore, excessive screen time and internet usage can also affect sleep patterns.
Gaming disorder is classified as a subcategory of addictive disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5). Online gaming has garnered more attention than other online activities as it has been found to be highly addictive, causing severe functional impairment. Smartphone gaming has seen a significant rise in popularity in recent years, yet no literature has specifically addressed smartphone gaming addiction.
Nonpharmacologic responses, such as pleasure and excitement, induced by smartphones or online games, have been found to suppress the perception of pain in pediatric patients and those with burn injuries. These nonpharmacologic effects can contribute to compulsive addictive behaviors and functional impairment. Unlike computer-based gaming, smartphone gaming often involves the use of multiple apps simultaneously, such as social networks and messengers. These interactions between gaming and other apps can further promote addictive behavior.
To date, there have been limited studies on smartphone addiction and gaming among adolescents. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the role of smartphone gaming and frequent smartphone use in the development of smartphone and internet addiction.
FAQs
Q: What is smartphone addiction?
A: Smartphone addiction refers to the excessive and compulsive use of smartphones that leads to functional impairment and withdrawal symptoms.
Q: How does smartphone gaming contribute to addiction?
A: Smartphone gaming, especially when combined with other apps, can promote addictive behavior due to the pleasurable and stimulating effects it produces.
Q: What are the potential consequences of smartphone addiction?
A: Excessive smartphone use can lead to functional impairment, such as decreased productivity, poor sleep patterns, and even accidents.
Q: Are there any differences between smartphone gaming addiction and other online gaming addictions?
A: While smartphone gaming addiction is a relatively new area of study, it shares many similarities with other forms of gaming addiction, such as the compulsion to play and the resulting functional impairment.
Conclusion
The increasing prevalence of smartphones and the rise of smartphone gaming have brought attention to the issue of smartphone addiction. This study aims to investigate the role of smartphone gaming and frequent smartphone use in the development of addiction. The findings will contribute to a better understanding of this significant social issue and help in developing appropriate interventions and strategies to address smartphone addiction effectively.
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