The effect of adult attachment on mobile phone dependence among university students: the mediating role of loneliness
2024

The effect of adult attachment on mobile phone dependence among university students

Sample size: 596 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Wang Zhenhong, Xuan Bin

Primary Institution: Anhui Normal University

Hypothesis

Adult attachment may significantly and positively predict mobile phone dependence.

Conclusion

Adult attachment and mobile phone dependence are closely related, and loneliness plays a vital role in this relationship.

Supporting Evidence

  • Students with high attachment anxiety tend to use their mobile phones frequently to stay connected.
  • Loneliness significantly predicts mobile phone dependence among university students.
  • Students with secure attachment exhibited significantly lower levels of loneliness compared to those with insecure attachments.

Takeaway

This study found that how close you feel to others can affect how much you rely on your phone, especially if you feel lonely.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study design was used with 596 university students completing various scales related to attachment, loneliness, and mobile phone dependence.

Potential Biases

Potential social desirability bias due to self-reported measures.

Limitations

The use of a convenience sample limits generalizability, and reliance on survey data may introduce social desirability bias.

Participant Demographics

Mean age of participants was 19.8 years, with 51.85% female and 41.61% being only children.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Confidence Interval

95% CI

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1494262

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication