Q24N — A recent study by Nomophobia.com reveals that 78% of Latin Americans consider themselves dependent on their smartphones for daily activities and highlights the central role of these devices in the region’s lifestyle.
The survey, which involved more than 3,000 people and was commissioned by Nomophobia.com, an online portal dedicated to this topic. This term, coined in 2008, describes the fear of being disconnected from the mobile phone. It is an abbreviation of the English “no mobile phone phobia.”
The use of smartphones has not stopped increasing: 69% say they own one of them, while 29% say they have two. For 73% of respondents, mobile phones were not used for the same purposes as five years ago, reflecting the constant evolution of technology that has brought numerous possibilities for using smartphones.
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For 81% of Latin Americans, mobile phones facilitate financial transactions through mobile payments. In addition, 74% use the device for entertainment, such as listening to music, watching movies and playing games, while 56% say it contributes to education by providing distance learning. Finally, 13% say they have met their partner through social networks or dating apps.
Nomophobia, or fear of being without a mobile phone, can lead to anxiety, depression and isolation, as well as physical problems such as headaches.
Using the cell phone in unusual places
The study also discovered some curious behaviors in relation to smartphone use. Of those surveyed, 16% admitted to using the phone during religious acts, 11% while riding a bicycle and 5% during sexual relations. The most common places for phone use were: 74% in waiting rooms, 72% in restaurants and 60% during meals with their partner, family and friends.
66% admit to excessive phone use, which in 26% of cases caused personal and/or professional problems and even caused 11% to lose their job due to this excess.
The need to be constantly connected, whether for work, the use of social networks or banking services, is a strong trend throughout Latin America, but opinions continue to vary within the region.
Implications of nomophobia for the health of users
“The survey shows that Latin Americans are increasingly dependent on their cell phones, which is worrying given the psychological and physical implications this has on populations,” said Patrick O’Neill, creator of Nomophobia.com. “Anxiety related to being without a phone is increasing worldwide, and this survey shows that Latin America is no exception.”
In this context, 66% of respondents in Latin America reported checking their phones throughout the day, even without receiving any notifications, reinforcing the idea of a phone-centric lifestyle.
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In Latin America, 23% consider mobile phones to be more important than friends and family.
The analysis raises crucial debates about the psychological implications of our growing dependence on mobile devices. As dependence becomes a fundamental part of everyday life, questions arise about its impact on cultural norms, interpersonal relationships, and social dynamics.
Are we living through a digital revolution or a possible cultural metamorphosis? Join the conversation and take part in this innovative exploration at Nomophobia.com.
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