Exploring the Connection Between Smartphone Use and Mental Health
The phenomenon of Problematic Smartphone Use (PSU) has emerged as a significant concern, particularly among adolescents, who are increasingly reliant on technology for social interaction and information. A recent cross-sectional study conducted among Moroccan high school students sheds light on this pressing issue, specifically investigating the correlation between PSU and psychological distress. This study highlights the mediating roles of Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) and aggression in this complex relationship.
In this comprehensive analysis, a sample of 2,202 participants aged between 14 and 23 years, with a mean age of 16.81 years, was assessed. The demographic breakdown revealed a predominance of female respondents (59%) and a majority residing in urban areas (72.5%). Utilizing validated Arabic scales such as the Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version (SAS-SV), FOMO, Buss–Perry Aggression Questionnaire-Short Form (BPAQ-SF), and the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), the researchers aimed to quantify the psychological impacts associated with smartphone dependency.
Findings from the study indicated not only a direct link between psychological distress and PSU but also identified four distinct indirect pathways through which this relationship operates. Notably, the Fear dimension of FOMO exhibited a stronger mediating effect on stress, depression, and anxiety compared to the Control dimension of FOMO. The statistical analysis revealed that the indirect effects of physical aggression were significantly pronounced, underscoring the relevance of aggression as a factor in the relationship between PSU and psychological distress. This research emphasizes the necessity for targeted mental health support and the implementation of digital wellness programs aimed at enhancing the well-being of high school students.
As reported by nature.com.
