THE DETRIMENTAL EFFECTS OF SMARTPHONE OVERUSE: CASE STUDY

Abstract

The use of multifunctional smartphones has changed lives in recent years and raised concerns around the world. The ability of smartphones to perform multiple tasks simultaneously is appealing. However, the total amount of time spent using smartphones every day is alarming, and excessive use might impact physical and mental health. The main goal is to determine the adequacy of the term “addiction” for excessive and problematic smartphone use.We present the case of Jalila, a 32-year-old woman who excessively uses her smartphone. We evaluate Jalila’s symptoms, noting that she spends about 9 hours per day on her smartphone. Jalila’s excessive cellphone use includes various addictive habits, such as instant chatting, watching YouTube videos, browsing the web, and visiting social media sites. The total amount of time she spends on these activities indicates a high degree of smartphone usage.When considered in its entirety, the smartphone, with all its functionalities, is a tool that can be used for all of these activities throughout the day. Jalila’s phone activities are primarily focused on community sites, and she uses her smartphone more than she intends to, indicating a loss of control that is affecting her health and well-being.