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Smartphone Addiction and Subjective Withdrawal Effects: A Three-Day Experimental Study

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  • Sarah Helene Aarestad
  • Tine Almenning Flaa
  • Mark D. Griffiths
  • StÃ¥le Pallesen

Abstract

Smartphones have arguably become a common necessity in modern society. While they can be used for many practical purposes, their many features increase the risk of overuse, a key element in behavioral addiction. The present study examined withdrawal-related scores on the Smartphone Withdrawal Scale, the Fear of Missing Out Scale, and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule during a smartphone restriction period, lasting 72 h. In total, 127 participants were randomly assigned either to a condition without smartphone access or to a control condition. The scales were administered three times a day during the restriction period and smartphone addiction scores were assessed on Day 1. The results showed that participants with the highest scores on smartphone addiction in the restricted condition were significantly more negatively affected by the restriction (compared to those with lower scores). This appears to indicate that being restricted from using smartphones can generate significant withdrawal symptoms, especially for those at risk of smartphone addiction.

Suggested Citation

  • Sarah Helene Aarestad & Tine Almenning Flaa & Mark D. Griffiths & StÃ¥le Pallesen, 2023. "Smartphone Addiction and Subjective Withdrawal Effects: A Three-Day Experimental Study," SAGE Open, , vol. 13(4), pages 21582440231, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:sagope:v:13:y:2023:i:4:p:21582440231219538
    DOI: 10.1177/21582440231219538
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Daria J. Kuss & Mark D. Griffiths, 2017. "Social Networking Sites and Addiction: Ten Lessons Learned," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 14(3), pages 1-17, March.
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