1.
Smruti Vakil
– Associate Professor at Narayana Business School, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
2.
Maulik Shah
– Marketing Academician, Researcher, and Industry Consultant
Abstract
This study investigates nomophobia, a rising psychological phenomenon characterized by anxiety and discomfort resulting from the inability to access mobile phones. The research aims to evaluate its prevalence, identify risk factors, and analyse the psychosocial effects among young adults in a digitally driven environment.
A cross-sectional quantitative research design was employed, utilizing a structured survey approach. Data were collected from 123 participants (mean age = 21.4 years, SD = 3.2), primarily digital natives aged 18–25 years. A validated 28-item questionnaire was distributed via Google Forms. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS, with reliability testing indicating strong internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.84). Statistical methods included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, and correlation analysis, factor analysis, logistic regression all set at a significance level of p < 0.05.
The results indicated a high prevalence of nomophobia, with 79.5% of respondents reporting anxiety or restlessness when separated from their smartphones. Additionally, 77.8% had attempted digital detox interventions. Hypothesis testing revealed significant correlations between phone usage and decreased productivity (p = 0.002), emotional responses to restrictions (p = 0.006), avoidance behaviors and relationship tension (p = 0.041), and digital detox attempts with perceived daily interference (p = 0.001).
The study advocates for structured digital literacy programs, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy interventions, institutional technology-use policies, and family-cantered psychoeducation to promote balanced technology use and enhance psychological well-being among digitally immersed populations.