Work

Digital traps: How technology fuels nomophobia and insomnia in Taiwanese college students

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the relationship between maladaptive digital technology use, which arises from nomophobia, and insomnia among young adults. It specifically focuses on problematic gaming (PG), problematic social media use (PSMU), and problematic YouTube use (PYTU) as significant forms of digital behavior contributing to this contemporary health concern. Adolescents and young adults, being the first generation raised in a highly digitized environment, encounter unique challenges, including the emergence of behavioral addictions. Our findings indicate a strong association between nomophobia and problematic digital behaviors, with PSMU identified as the most prevalent form of maladaptive use. Additionally, PG and PSMU are recognized as substantial contributors to the development of nomophobia. The interaction of cognitive overstimulation, emotional dysregulation, blue light exposure, time displacement, and reward-driven dependency on these digital platforms promotes compulsive behaviors, which subsequently lead to the onset of insomnia. Utilizing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the study illustrates that nomophobia precipitates problematic digital behavior, which in turn results in sleep disturbances, thereby elucidating a clear pathway from digital dependency to insomnia. The limitations of this study include its cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported data, which may introduce potential biases. Despite these limitations, our findings underscore the critical role of nomophobia in triggering insomnia through various maladaptive digital behaviors. This highlights the urgent need for targeted prevention and intervention strategies aimed at fostering healthier digital habits and alleviating the adverse health effects of excessive technology use, ultimately enhancing well-being in an increasingly interconnected society. • Problematic digital behaviors has been demonstrated to be correlated with nomophobia and insomnia. • Problematic social media use (PSMU) has been identified as the most significant factor correlated with nomophobia. • Problematic YouTube use (PYTU) and problematic gaming (PG) are also correlated with nomophobia. • Raising awareness of the psychological impacts of social media may facilitate the mitigation of dependency cycles. • Targeted interventions are crucial for fostering healthier digital behaviors and alleviating related health risks.

Source: Acta Psychologica

DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2024.104674

Authors: Yi-Ching Lin, Po-Ching Huang

Institutions: National Taipei University of Education, Chang Gung University

Language: English

Topic: Impact of Technology on Adolescents

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,030