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Dandumahanti BP, Subramaniyam M. Ergonomic evaluation of upper extremities muscle activity pattern during 60-min smartphone texting. Work 2024; 78:477-488. [PMID: 38143412 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Smartphone usage has increased rapidly in the last decade due to rapid technological advancements. This extensive usage of smartphones led to physiological problems and musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) due to inappropriate postures. OBJECTIVE Past studies have reported the effects/discomfort of smartphone usage for short periods, ranging from 3-20 min, which does not represent the current era of smartphone dependency (approximately 7-hr/day). METHODS This study was performed on fifty-four participants aged 20-28 with 1-hr smartphone texting in a sitting posture. Flexion angles, both sides (dominant and non-dominant) muscle activity (maximum voluntary contraction %) at sternocleidomastoid (SCM), upper-trapezius (TRP), extensor digitorum (EDM) and abductor pollicis brevis (APB) muscles, and subjective discomfort were analyzed. RESULTS After 1-hr smartphone texting, the muscle activity at eight upper extremities: SCM (24.80%), TRP (29.45%), EDM (14.44%) and APB (19.87%) significantly (p < 0.001) increased by 1.5-1.9 times with 27.4±3.18° and 82.94±7.03° head and lower-arm flexion angles, respectively. The mechanical loads on the cervical spine increased by 4.6 times, and subjective discomfort by 3 times. CONCLUSION Maintaining the same posture for a long duration causes postural stress, muscular imbalances, and discomfort, leading to MSD with increased cervical intervertebral disc pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhanu Priya Dandumahanti
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chennai, India
| | - Murali Subramaniyam
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chennai, India
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Dandumahanti BP, Subramaniyam M. Influence of smartphone game play on head flexion angle, muscle activity, and load at C7 among adolescents. Work 2023; 75:1413-1425. [PMID: 36776091 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Smartphones cause physiological problems due to inappropriate postures and extensive usage. India, being the second leading country with the highest number of smartphone users (492 million in 2021), has witnessed a significant rise in smartphone-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). OBJECTIVE This study compared the effects of 60-min smartphone gameplay on head flexion angle, muscle activity, and loads at C7 on Indian adolescents. METHODS A subjective assessment was conducted on 1659 participants, of which, 40 young male adults aged between 20-28 years performed the experimental trial. Muscle (Sternocleidomastoid) activity, head flexion angle, and load acting at the neck (C7) were analyzed through postural assessment, pre-and post-subjective analysis. RESULTS Participants maintained an average of 28.46°±4.04° head flexion angle for more than 43 min (71%) in an hour while performing the task. The muscle activity increased to 23% (p < 0.001) of MVC at the end of the task compared to the beginning. CONCLUSION The results indicated a significant increase in muscle activity (1.61 times), spinal loads (4.6 times) and subjective discomfort (2.9 times) after prolonged smartphone usage. It is evident that various aspects (duration, posture, content) play a vital role in smartphone-related MSD and there is a potential risk of cervical spine problems. The increased loads reduce muscle stiffness and increase intervertebral disc pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhanu Priya Dandumahanti
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Murali Subramaniyam
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India
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Fu G, Zenggen R, Li L, Xueshuang W, Wenbo C. Effects of lying posture and task type on muscle fatigue, visual fatigue, and discomfort while using a smartphone on the bed. Work 2023; 76:691-705. [PMID: 36911964 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neck-shoulder and arm musculoskeletal disorders in smartphone use have attracted increasing attention. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine the effect of different lying postures and task types by comparing the electrooculography (EOG) responses, perceived discomfort, and the activity of neck-shoulder and arm muscles while using a smartphone on the bed. METHODS Twenty participants were recruited to perform 30-min tasks (texting/ watching video) while holding the smartphone in three different lying postures (half-lying/lying/side-lying). Subjective discomfort, muscular activities including the abductor pollicis brevis (APB), upper trapezius (UT), and extensor carpi radialis (ECR), and EOG signals were simultaneously monitored. RESULTS The results showed that the perceived discomfort of measured body parts increased significantly over time in all postures. Watching video significantly increases muscle activities of APB and UT and decreases blink frequency and blink duration. Compared to lying or half-lying, the side-lying posture has the highest blink frequency, blink duration, and muscle activities in ECR and UT. CONCLUSION The findings of this study indicate that side-lying posture should be avoided while using a smartphone on the bed. It provides an understanding of the association between the postures of using smartphones on the bed and fatigue, which can help prevent muscle and visual fatigue in smartphone use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo Fu
- Department of Industrial Engineering, School of Business Administration, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ren Zenggen
- Department of Industrial Engineering, School of Business Administration, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Liu Li
- Department of Industrial Engineering, School of Business Administration, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Wang Xueshuang
- Department of Industrial Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Shenyang University of Technology, Shenyang, China
| | - Cai Wenbo
- Department of Industrial Engineering, School of Business Administration, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
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Mongkonkansai J, Veerasakul S, Tamrin SBM, Madardam U. Predictors of Musculoskeletal Pain among Primary School Students Using Smartphones in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:10530. [PMID: 36078252 PMCID: PMC9518098 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191710530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
School-age children increasingly use smartphones to conduct their learning activities; increasing reports of disorders related to smartphone use exist, including visual-related symptoms, stress, and musculoskeletal pain. This study aimed to examine risk factors for musculoskeletal pain among primary school students using smartphones. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 233 school-aged children in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand. Data collection used a questionnaire for musculoskeletal symptoms using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire with ISO 11,226:2000. Through Chi-square, t-test, and logistic regression analysis, factors independently associated with musculoskeletal pain were determined. An important factor in the development of musculoskeletal pain was the prolonged use of smartphones for longer than 60 min, particularly among children aged 6-9 years old. In regards to musculoskeletal pain, almost 53% of the students used their smartphones while lying down. Posing in a prone position while using a smartphone was 7.37 times more dangerous than sitting. The laying position tilts numerous organs at varying angles, especially the upper arm. The risk of musculoskeletal complaints must be reduced by educating parents, children, and the relevant government organizations about safe smartphone usage. The mentioned factors may be used to anticipate the onset of musculoskeletal pain caused by smartphone use in young children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jittaporn Mongkonkansai
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, School of Public Health, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
| | - Siriluk Veerasakul
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, School of Public Health, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Data Science for Health Study, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
| | - Shamsul Bahri Mohd Tamrin
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia
| | - Uraiwan Madardam
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, School of Public Health, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
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Priya DB, Subramaniyam M. Fatigue due to smartphone use? Investigating research trends and methods for analysing fatigue caused by extensive smartphone usage: A review. Work 2022; 72:637-650. [DOI: 10.3233/wor-205351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The easy accessibility of smartphones has led to a fivefold increase in their use. People use smartphones almost anywhere, including during travelling and studying. During the global COVID-19 pandemic, the average smartphone screen time has increased from 2.25 to 4.8 hours per day. In India, smartphone usage increased by 68%, and the average screen time increased from 2.42 to 6.9 hours. This dependency on smartphones has led to smartphone addiction. Inappropriate postures during the prolonged use of smartphones can exert adverse effects such as musculoskeletal disorders, digital eye strain, loss of focus and attention. OBJECTIVES: This study was undertaken to understand the effects of prolonged smartphone utilisation and explored fatigue measurement techniques. METHODS: A total of 130 studies examining the effects of smartphone utilisation published in the previous 10 years were identified from the following databases: IEEE, Science Direct, PubMed, PubMed Central, and Google Scholar are reviewed. This study was conducted from September 2019 to January 2021. RESULTS: One in every four adolescents were prone to smartphone addiction, which causes poor mental health. Moreover, India’s research on the effects of excessive smartphone usage is limited. CONCLUSIONS: Studies are required to establish the correlation between fatigue levels and smartphone usage patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. Bhanu Priya
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Potheri, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Murali Subramaniyam
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Potheri, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India
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Ahn SH, Jung SH, Kim HA, Kim JH, Weon YS, Kwon OY. Differences in neck muscle activity according to lying positions using a smartphone. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil 2022; 35:383-391. [PMID: 34334376 DOI: 10.3233/bmr-200315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the extended use of smartphones, people spend a lot of time on these devices while lying down. OBJECTIVE The purpose of the present study was to compare the differences in neck muscle activity of participants while they watched videos on a smartphone in four different lying positions (supine (SUP), prone on elbows (PE), side lying (SIDE), and 45∘ head turn while side lying (45-SIDE)). METHODS Twenty-three healthy volunteers (22.4 ± 1.7 years) were enrolled in this study. We assessed the activities of their right and left sternocleidomastoid (SCM), anterior scalene, cervical erector spinae (CES), and upper trapezius (UT) muscles while they watched videos on a smartphone in four different lying positions. RESULTS The right and left SCM and CES had significantly different muscle activities depending on the lying positions. The SCM activity had a significantly greater asymmetry in the 45-SIDE position, while the CES activity had a significantly greater asymmetry in the SIDE and 45-SIDE positions. Moreover, the UT activity had a significantly greater asymmetry in the SUP, PE, and SIDE positions. CONCLUSIONS Neck muscle activity and asymmetry were the lowest in the SUP position relative to the other positions. Therefore, lying down in the SUP position may minimize neck muscle activation while using a smartphone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Hee Ahn
- Department of Rehabilitation Therapy, Graduate School, Yonsei University, Wonju, Korea
| | - Sung-Hoon Jung
- Department of Rehabilitation Therapy, Graduate School, Yonsei University, Wonju, Korea
| | - Hyun-A Kim
- Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Aichi, Japan
| | - Jun-Hee Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Therapy, Graduate School, Yonsei University, Wonju, Korea
| | - Young-Soo Weon
- Department of Rehabilitation Therapy, Graduate School, Yonsei University, Wonju, Korea
| | - Oh-Yun Kwon
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Science, Laboratory of Kinetic Ergocise Based on Movement Analysis, Yonsei University, Wonju, Korea
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Shankar S, Naveenkumar R, Nithyaprakash R, Narmatha S, Sai RR, Nandhakumar M. Impact of digital boards on hand and neck muscle activity during online teaching process. EDUCATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES 2022; 27:5627-5640. [PMID: 35035258 PMCID: PMC8747848 DOI: 10.1007/s10639-021-10854-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Academicians across the globe due to Covid 19 shifted to online teaching as a mainstream method by replacing the chalk and talk method. The main objective of this study is to find the impact of different sizes of digital boards used for online teaching on muscle activity and muscle fatigue, and then results are compared with conventional writing. Initially, a questionnaire survey is conducted among 100 college professors about the issue they faced while using online teaching methods. Experimental analysis are then conducted using electromyography sensor (sEMG) among ten college professors and their muscle activity on the dominant hand and neck while writing on two commercially available digital boards namely Type 1 (small writing area) and Type 2 (large writing area). Four muscles namely Flexor carpi radialis, Extensor carpi radialis, Biceps brachii, and Sternocleidomastoid (SCM) are chosen for the study. The results are then compared with muscle activity while writing on conventional A4 sheets. Normalized root mean square (RMS) is used to assess the muscle activity and the trend line of MPF value is utilized to assess the muscle fatigue. The results show that SCM muscle has more muscle activation compared to other selected muscles followed by flexor carpi radialis. Subjective analysis is carried out using the Borg scale, which has reported that Type 2 digital board having larger working area was preferred by the participants as it reduces muscle fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Shankar
- Department of Mechatronics Engineering, Kongu Engineering College, Erode, Tamil Nadu 638060 India
| | - R. Naveenkumar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Kongu Engineering College, Erode, Tamil Nadu 638060 India
| | - R. Nithyaprakash
- Department of Mechatronics Engineering, Kongu Engineering College, Erode, Tamil Nadu 638060 India
| | - S. Narmatha
- Department of Mechatronics Engineering, Kongu Engineering College, Erode, Tamil Nadu 638060 India
| | - R. Rithic Sai
- Department of Mechatronics Engineering, Kongu Engineering College, Erode, Tamil Nadu 638060 India
| | - M. Nandhakumar
- Department of Mechatronics Engineering, Kongu Engineering College, Erode, Tamil Nadu 638060 India
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Tapanya W, Puntumetakul R, Neubert MS, Hunsawong T, Boucaut R. Ergonomic arm support prototype device for smartphone users reduces neck and shoulder musculoskeletal loading and fatigue. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2021; 95:103458. [PMID: 33991854 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Smartphone use is a risk factor for both neck and shoulder musculoskeletal disorders. The objective of this study was to evaluate an ergonomic arm support prototype device, which may help improve posture while using a smartphone, by determining its effect on muscle activity, muscle fatigue, and neck and shoulder discomfort. Twenty-four healthy young adult smartphone users performed 20 min of smartphone game playing under two different conditions, smartphone use with support prototype device (i.e. intervention condition) and without (i.e. control condition), while neck and shoulder posture were controlled at 0° neck flexion and 30° shoulder flexion. Activity and fatigue of four muscles were measured using surface electromyography (sEMG), these were: anterior deltoid (AD), cervical erector spinae (CES), upper trapezius (UT) and lower trapezius (LT). The intervention condition showed significantly decreased activity of all muscles. Fatigue of all muscles, except LT, significantly increased over time compared to the start point in the control condition. There was no significant difference in muscle fatigue between each time point in the intervention condition. In conclusion, the ergonomic arm support prototype device can be used as ergonomic intervention to reduce neck and shoulder muscle loading and fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weerasak Tapanya
- Research Center in Back, Neck, Other Joint Pain and Human Performance, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand; School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Rungthip Puntumetakul
- Research Center in Back, Neck, Other Joint Pain and Human Performance, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand; School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.
| | - Manida Swangnetr Neubert
- Research Center in Back, Neck, Other Joint Pain and Human Performance, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand; Program of Production Technology, Faculty of Technology, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Torkamol Hunsawong
- Research Center in Back, Neck, Other Joint Pain and Human Performance, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand; School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Rose Boucaut
- University of South Australia: Allied Health and Human Performance, iCAHE (International Centre for Allied Health Evidence), Adelaide, Australia
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Areeudomwong P, Bootsast W, Thapthimthong C, Manop P, Buttagat V. Effects of kinesio taping on neck-shoulder discomfort and EMG responses during smartphone texting in healthy young adults. Work 2020; 67:847-854. [PMID: 33325432 DOI: 10.3233/wor-203336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While kinesio taping (KT) is used in several clinical settings to correct posture and reduce pain, KT effects during smartphone texting are unknown. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects among healthy young adults of KT on neck-shoulder discomfort and electromyographic (EMG) responses of neck and upper trunk muscles during smartphone texting. METHODS Twenty-four participants performed a 30-minute texting task on a smartphone using both hands at two separate times under one of two conditions: KT on the right shoulder and no taping. Neck-shoulder discomfort was assessed, along with the normalized root mean square (NRMS) and normalized median frequency (NMF) of the right cervical erector spinae (CES), lower trapezius (LT), and serratus anterior (SA). RESULTS Compared to baseline, both groups had significantly greater neck-shoulder discomfort, and NRMS and NMF of all muscles (p < 0.001) after performing a 30-minute texting task. Comparing between groups, the KT group experienced significantly less neck-shoulder discomfort, and demonstrated delayed deterioration of NRMS and NMF of right CES and LT muscles (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS During smartphone texting, KT on the shoulder decreased neck-shoulder discomfort and delayed reduction of activation and fatigue of neck and upper trunk muscles among healthy young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pattanasin Areeudomwong
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Integrative Medicine, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Wasuphol Bootsast
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Integrative Medicine, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Chalalai Thapthimthong
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Integrative Medicine, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Patchareeporn Manop
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Integrative Medicine, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Vitsarut Buttagat
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Integrative Medicine, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
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Pera A. The Psychology of Addictive Smartphone Behavior in Young Adults: Problematic Use, Social Anxiety, and Depressive Stress. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:573473. [PMID: 33101087 PMCID: PMC7522217 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.573473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This review enhances the existing literature on relationships between problematic smartphone use (PSU), psychopathology, addictive personality, and online social engagement as regards young adults, giving attention to predictive determinants of addictive behavior in smartphone usage. My article cumulates previous research findings on the psychology of addictive smartphone behavior in terms of problematic use, social anxiety, and depressive stress by focusing on the relationship among mobile social media usage, smartphone addiction risk, mental health issues, and individual well-being. The inspected collected findings prove that depression and social anxiety constitute risk determinants for greater PSU and that particular categories of smartphone applications are positively related to well-being. State anxiety and motivations represent significant predictors of PSU. High PSU affects participation in social engagement. As limitations in the current review, my results point towards relevant avenues of research on social consequences of teenagers' smartphone problematic use. Future directions should clarify whether compulsive smartphone use adversely affects both mental and physical health in the long run.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurel Pera
- Department of Teacher Training, University of Craiova, Craiova, Romania
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