Degree of smartphone addiction in the university environment

BACKGROUND
Smartphones have become the primary means of accessing the internet in Spain, surpassing tablets and computers. Applications occupy most of the usage time on these devices, standing out for their functionality, versatility, and increasingly sophisticated design. These devices have transformed how we socially interact. Although the desire for connection and relationship building remains constant, smartphones and virtual social networks have altered communication styles and interpersonal relationships. Despite these advancements, clear guidelines to differentiate smartphone addiction from normal behaviors have not yet been established. It is acknowledged that the amount of time spent using the smartphone cannot be the sole criterion for distinguishing between problematic and normal behaviors. Smartphone addiction affects younger individuals more, especially university students. Their high dependency is justified by the necessary use for accessing academic content and socializing in a new environment. Furthermore, the consumption of digital entertainment such as video games, series, or movies increases this usage time.
OBJECTIVES
Evaluate the degree of smartphone addiction among university students at the School of Nursing and Occupational Therapy of Terrassa (Barcelona) (EUIT)Identify the sociodemographic factors influencing smartphone addiction and self-esteem
METHODS
Study Design: Observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional
Study Period: October to December - 2023
Inclusion Criteria: Students of Nursing at the School of Nursing and Occupational Therapy of Terrassa (Barcelona) (EUIT).
Instrument: Online survey where students answered questions including sociodemographic data and the validated EDAS-18 scale, evaluating the degree of dependence and addiction to smartphone use.
Analysis: Descriptive data of each independent variable from the scale were calculated, followed by examining the influence of each on the sociodemographic factors.
RESULTS
The initial results (still in the analysis phase and to be presented at the conference) showed a high level of addiction and dependence on smartphone use among university students, especially in the younger population. Preliminary data show no significant differences in addiction levels between both genders, although more data analysis is pending. In the university environment, internal factors such as usage time, employment status, or age increase the risk of smartphone addiction.
CONCLUSIONS
Smartphone addiction primarily affects young people, especially university students, with high usage justified by academic, social, and digital entertainment needs. The relationship between smartphone use and social networks has transformed communication styles and interpersonal relationships, although clear guidelines to distinguish between addiction and normal use are yet to be established.