A few years ago Forbes magazine ran an article on cellphone addiction. In it, they took a look at both sides of the issue. While some have been saying for a decade that addiction to cellphones would be a problem, there are others who still think it is not a big deal. In fact, there are those who would go as far as to say that the smartphone is a vital and necessary part of daily modern life.
An expert on Internet-related behaviors and a psychologist, David Greenfield, is quotes in the article as saying that the feeling of getting a good text message or email on your phone is a little like the “hit” of ecstasy that a gambler gets when they hit. It’s the good feeling that causes some people to keep going – no matter how often they lose or how much spam they get and time they waste – until they get that good feeling again.
Cell Phone Addiction is Serious
As with other types of addiction, there are some people that have serious problems with becoming addicted to using a cell phone or having to be in constant contact with one (or more) social networks via the phone. Whether it is constantly checking Facebook for updates or tweeting via Twitter or checking in on FourSquare, there are many people who find it hard to go fifteen or more minutes without using their cell phone for something.
It is when this desire to use the phone cannot be controlled that problems begin to happen. This is especially true for people who became addicted to online games like Mafia Wars or even FarmVille – or those that are prone to becoming addicted to a game. Even something like playing Angry Birds on the phone constantly can be a problem.
And while some may say that cell phone addiction doesn’t cause any problems – even if it is real – there is a good chance that someone addicted will be tempted to check their phone while driving – which can have disastrous consequences. Even for those who do not use their smart phone while driving, there can be serious negative effects on a relationship as well.
Cell Phone Addictions are Fine
On the other hand, there are those who think that it is fine to have a cell phone around constantly. While this may be the case for some people who have self-control and know how to stay on top of their bad habits, it is far too easy for some to slip too far and become very addicted to their cell phone.
If you think your cell phone addiction is fine, here are some things to consider:
- Money – All that time on your phone is costing you money. You may have a limitless plan for this or that, but the megabytes add up and you are going to end up paying quite a bit of money each and every month.
- Time – The other big expense if you become addicted to your cell phone is that you are going to waste a lot of time with the device – time that could be better spent pursuing other opportunities.
There are other things to think about if you think being addicted to a smartphone is okay, but these should be enough to get you at least thinking about the problem. Keep browsing our site and bookmark us so you can come back as we continually add new information. We have a lot of information to help you deal with cell phone addictions – whether you are addicted yourself or it has happened to someone you know and love. Either way, stay tuned for even more useful information that can help you break your cell phone addiction.
