Abstract
Attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most commonly diagnosed childhood disorder characterised by inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, or both. Some of the key traits of ADHD have previously been linked to addictive and problematic behaviours. The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between problematic mobile phone use, smartphone addiction risk and ADHD symptoms in an adult population. A sample of 273 healthy adult volunteers completed the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), the Mobile Phone Problem Usage Scale (MPPUS), and the Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS). A significant positive correlation was found between the ASRS and both scales. More specifically, inattention symptoms and age predicted smartphone addiction risk and problematic mobile phone use. Our results suggest that there is a positive relationship between ADHD traits and problematic mobile phone use. In particular, younger adults with higher level of inattention symptoms could be at higher risk of developing smartphone addiction. The implication of our findings for theoretical frameworks of problematic mobile phone use and clinical practice are discussed.
Highlights
Smartphones have become an integral part of our lives
The main aim of this study was to examine the contribution of inattention and hyperactivity, as well as overall Attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) traits, to smartphone addiction and problematic mobile phone use
Age was negatively correlated with Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS) scores (r = −.32) and Mobile Phone Problem Usage Scale (MPPUS) (r = −.36), suggesting that younger participants had more signs of problematic mobile phone use
Summary
Smartphones have become an integral part of our lives. According to recent statistical reports, the number of smartphone users estimated for 2017 exceeded 2.3 billion and users were expected to exceed 5 billion by 2019 (Carvalho et al 2018). Smartphone use has been affecting our daily routines, habits, social behaviours and interactions. Research investigating smartphone use and how it is changing people’s lives is still at a very early stage. Existing evidence suggests that both positive and negative outcomes have been associated with mobile phone use. Smartphones provide many benefits to healthcare professionals, such as better clinical decision-making and clinical outcomes for the patients (Ventola 2014). Smartphones can increase the user’s sense of confidence, provide amusement, socialisation, and improve daily life productivity (Jung 2014)
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