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Korean Students Aren't the Only Ones 'Addicted' to Smartphones

The Wall Street Journal reports that roughly 1 in 5 Korean students are addicted to their smartphones. But the problem isn't limited to Korea.
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The Wall Street Journal reports that roughly 1 in 5 Korean students are addicted to their smartphones. But the problem isn't limited to Korea. Last year Time magazine reported the results of a survey that found that "1 in 4 people check (their phone) every 30 minutes, 1 in 5 every 10 minutes," while "a third of respondents admitted that being without their mobile for even short periods leaves them feeling anxious."

An article in WebMD said that "70% said they check their smartphone within an hour of getting up" while "56% check their phone within an hour of going to sleep." The post, by Dr. Laura J. Martin, MD, suggested three steps to "control usage:"

  • Be conscious of the situations and emotions that make you want to check your phone. Is it boredom? Loneliness? Anxiety? Maybe something else would soothe you.

  • Be strong when your phone beeps or rings. You don't always have to answer it. In fact, you can avoid temptation by turning off the alert signals.

  • Be disciplined about not using your device in certain situations (such as when you're with children, driving, or in a meeting) or at certain hours ( for instance, between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m.).
    • Source:
    Addicted to Your Smartphone? Here's What to Do

    For more:

    10 Rules for Safe Family Cell Phone Use

    Cell phone safety tips (from ConnectSafely)

    For families: Connecting mindfully vs 'digital detox (by my ConnectSafely.org co-director, Anne Collier)

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