Experiences of Smartphone Addiction among University Students
대학생의 스마트폰 중독 경험

Juhye Jin
2017 Journal of Digital Convergence  
The high rates of smartphone usage among younger people and the negative impacts are well-known, but there remains a paucity of qualitative research on the topic. This study was designed to explore the experiences of university students addicted to smartphones. The author conducted in-depth individual interviews with 17 university students who scored in the upper 5th percentile on a smartphone addiction scale. All interviews were audiotaped, transcribed, and analyzed using qualitative content
more » ... alysis. Students with a smartphone addiction were trapped in a vicious cycle. More specifically, they were "Realizing something was wrong with withdrawal symptoms," "Having negative consequences," "Seeking escape," and "Staying addicted." This study helped participating students realize their addiction and disclose their emotional and interpersonal difficulties related to their smartphone use. These understandings may be used to refine and further develop school-based programs to better help those addicted to smartphones to recover.
doi:10.14400/jdc.2017.15.2.421 fatcat:ykgjmbvkg5cqngssi32stqojdm