Patterns of Smartphone Addiction and Associated Factors: Effects on Mental Health and Academic Performance in Medical Students

Abstract

A smartphone is a fundamental device used in our daily life. So, it is essential to investigate its effect on the medical students. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 298 random medical students. Data was collected by the principal investigator through face-to-face interviews, using a pretested interview schedule. Ethical considerations were thoroughly addressed while ensuring data quality. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25.0 and presented through tables and diagrams. Results: More than half 162(54.4%) were between 18 to 22 years and significant 174(58.4%) were female while 267(89.6%) were single. Most 93(31.2%) were in their first year. A significant 129(43.3%) were not non-addicts of smartphones and 187(62.7%) were satisfied with their profession. Most 159(53.4%) had no depression while 139(46.6%) had normal levels of anxiety. Most 114(38.2%) of respondents use smartphones for <2 hours and 139(46.6%) use them at night. Most 141(47.3%) had normal weight and a significant 186(62.4%) didn’t smoke. More than 224(75.2%) revealed that their exam performance would be better if don’t use a smartphone but 218(73.5%) had no parental rules and 228(76.5%) checked smartphones frequently. More than half 156(52.3%) had normal levels of stress and 159(53.4%) had good relations with their classmates. Around two-thirds of 189(63.4%) were at risk of social media addiction. More than half 162(54.4%) had eye strain, 138(46%) had weight gain and 108(36.2%) had back pain. Conclusion: Medical students are habitual with smartphone use and some of them are addicted to it. They are satisfied with their profession and don’t have any level of depression with a normal level of anxiety. Most of them use smartphones for a significant amount of time, especially at night. Students had normal weight and didn’t smoke but were at risk of social media addiction. Some of them had eye strain, weight gain and back pain.