Nomophobia

Posted on December 28, 2015

The term “addiction” is usually associated with alcoholism and drug abuse. Yet people can get addicted to different stimulants that are far beyond illegal substances.

Smartphones changed our primary vision of a cell phone. It is no longer used to establish audio communication. Smartphones allow us to have our camera, GPS navigator, video game terminal and even our own library in one place. Nevertheless, the biggest and most important aspect is that it gives us access to the Internet.

Nomophobia (no-mobile-phobia) is defined as the fear of being out of cell phone contact. Have you thought about how long you can go without checking your cell phone? How about your children?

The problem among teens is that they have become so engrossed with their smartphones that they are missing the world around them. So-called smartphone zombies are now walking during class breaks and at home. And even if children are having fun, their fun has to be documented via photo, video or text message. Other habits such as watching very large number of YouTube videos, playing computer games and reading online also can lead to Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD).

The University of Derby (England) has recently conducted a smartphone behavior study. Their conclusion is: “Smartphones are psychologically addictive for children, encourage narcissistic behavior and should come with a health warning.”

For some things you can do to help your child with smartphone addiction, read the article in full at the link below.


Category(s):Addictions

Source material from Psych Central