Dr. Yasir Masood Afaq
Dr. Yasir Masood Afaq, Clinical Psychologist and Wellness Protagonist, is a trainer, OD consultant, life coach and entrepreneur. Afaq contributes to the knowledge economy by employing empirically-endorsed insights of Applied Psychology in his workshops, keynotes and consultancies. He practices as a Clinical Psychologist in addition to designing and executing experiential learning and transformational interventions on Personal & Occupational Wellbeing, Work-Life Integration, Cognitive Fitness, Resilient Organizational Culture and Wellness at Work for blue chip corporates, Public Sector Departments, INGOs and UN agencies. He is the CEO of MYMACOM (www.mymacom.com), a private limited company, rendering services in the wider spectrum of Applied Organizational Psychology; and the Founding Director of House of Wellness (www.houseofwellness.pk), a Mental Health Treatment & Resource Center in Islamabad. In addition to a PhD in Applied Psychology from NUML Pakistan, Afaq holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Psychology from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad – Pakistan, and a MS in Clinical Psychology with distinctions throughout his academic career.
Disconnected addiction: Unraveling the psychological depths of Compulsive Smartphone Dependency and its impact on mental well-being.
In the digital age, smartphones have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. These devices offer instant access to a multitude of information, communication platforms, and entertainment options. However, this increased connectivity has also given rise to a concerning phenomenon known as compulsive smartphone dependency, or smartphone addiction. This presentation aims to explore the psychological depths of this addiction, shedding light on its causes, consequences, and potential interventions.
Compulsive smartphone dependency can be understood as a behavioral addiction characterized by excessive and uncontrollable smartphone use that interferes with an individual's daily functioning. The American Psychological Association (APA) recognizes behavioral addictions as a legitimate concern, and smartphone addiction fits within this framework (APA, 2013). Research suggests that individuals develop a dependence on smartphones due to various factors, including social pressure, fear of missing out (FOMO), and the allure of constant stimulation and gratification (Elhai et al., 2017).
The consequences of smartphone addiction are far-reaching and can have profound effects on an individual's mental and emotional well-being. Excessive smartphone use has been associated with increased anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and decreased academic and occupational performance (Demirci et al., 2015; Elhai et al., 2017). Moreover, compulsive smartphone use can lead to social isolation, as individuals become engrossed in virtual interactions at the expense of real-life relationships (APA, 2017).
Interventions for smartphone addiction typically involve a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, and technological interventions. CBT techniques focus on identifying and modifying maladaptive thoughts and behaviors associated with smartphone use (King et al., 2018). Psychoeducation helps individuals gain insight into the negative consequences of excessive smartphone use and develop healthier coping strategies (Panova & Carbonell, 2018). Technological interventions, such as screen time monitoring apps and notification management tools, can aid individuals in regulating their smartphone usage (Billieux et al., 2020).
In conclusion, compulsive smartphone dependency represents a significant concern in the digital age. It affects individuals' psychological well-being, interpersonal relationships, and daily functioning. By acknowledging the psychological depths of this addiction, raising awareness, and implementing appropriate interventions, society can strive to strike a healthy balance between the benefits of smartphone technology and the potential risks of excessive use.
References:
American Psychological Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). APA Publishing.
American Psychological Association. (2017). APA Dictionary of Psychology. APA Publishing.
Billieux, J., Maurage, P., Lopez-Fernandez, O., Kuss, D. J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2020). Can Disordered Mobile Phone Use Be Considered a Behavioral Addiction? An Update on Current Evidence and a Comprehensive Model for Future Research. Current Addiction Reports, 7(2), 156-168.
Demirci, K., Akgönül, M., & Akpinar, A. (2015). Relationship of smartphone use severity with sleep quality, depression, and anxiety in university students. Journal of Behavioral Addictions, 4(2), 85-92.
Elhai, J. D., Dvorak, R. D., Levine, J. C., & Hall, B. J. (2017). Problematic smartphone use: A conceptual overview and systematic review of relations with anxiety and depression psychopathology. Journal of Affective Disorders, 207, 251-259.
King, D. L., Delfabbro, P. H., & Griffiths, M. D. (2018). Cognitive behavioral therapy for problematic gaming: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Mental