Smartphones are marketed as tools that make your life better. They deliver soothing music, stream hilarious video, help you navigate, and keep you connected in a fast-paced world. But according to a new study, the devices also serve up more stress.
Research conducted by the British Psychological Society found that users become more stressed because of their fixation over messages including email and social networks.
Some users are so anxious for new messages they experience "phantom vibrations" or alerts.
Is this a smartphone addiction, or is this an information addiction?
Do you or does someone you know suffer from obsessive smartphone use? I'd love to hear your stories.
Matthew Fortner has been at The News & Observer since 2002. He has a passion for gadgets, cutting-edge technology and all things geek.
Comments
Smart Phone Stress
Mon, 01/16/2012 - 00:44 — LetsGoPittYeah, I get stressed because I want you to put your damn smart phone down and talk to/interact with a real person! I wish more stores/businesses had this sign:
We will be glad to wait on you once you put your cell phone away.
Seriously, is the next phone call/text message you recieve the most important thing in the world? Call me old-school, but I really like talking to people in the flesh. I'm a runner, and I wave or say hi to every runner I pass on the trail. Sadly, most have ipods and never hear me, never wave back.
So, yes, I am stressed because too many people are too glued to their cell phones.