Many of us breathe a sigh of relief when we watch an old movie, or series, that lacks smartphones. Why is instant communication with virtually anyone on the planet so anxiety-provoking? Perhaps electronic interchange fails our evolved social needs and triggers helplessness instead.

The Clinical Evidence Is Overwhelming

Internet communication began on computers but employs many other devices such as game consoles, tablets, and smart TVs. Why are smartphones singled out as such a threat that some school districts are banning them?

The key advantage and the key risk posed by personal phones hooked to the Internet is convenience. They are easy to carry around so that users can remain on their screens for most of their waking lives. In addition to being constantly available, smartphones are addictive, at least in the everyday sense that people can't stop using them. They also tap into the dopaminergic neurotransmitter systems that underlie addiction to substances as well as gambling and problem shopping.

Virtually every domain of clinical psychology finds that smartphones threaten our psychological well-being. Findings include increased anxiety, depression, suicide, bullying, eating disorders, sexual violence, and loneliness, together with learning problems, and deficits........

© Psychology Today