THE IMPACT OF GADGET DEPENDENCY ON ANXIETY: CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11603/1681-2786.2024.4.15213Keywords:
gadgets; anxiety; dependency; impact.Abstract
Objective. To investigate the impact of gadgets on anxiety levels and to make conclusions regarding methods of combating it. Materials and Methods. To assess the respondents’ level of anxiety, an author-designed questionnaire was developed based on a review of literature sources and the adaptation of questions from anxiety and gadget dependency scales. Using this questionnaire, we conducted an evaluation consisting of two parts: determining gadget dependency and assessing the level of anxiety. Based on the data from the first part of the questionnaire, respondents were divided into three groups: no dependency, excessive engagement with gadgets, and dependency on gadgets. After evaluating the second part of the questionnaire, participants were also categorized into three groups: low, moderate, and high anxiety levels. We analyzed the responses of 389 participants to explore the relationship between gadget dependency and anxiety levels. Results. Among the respondents, 72 (18.5%) showed no dependency on gadgets, 204 (52.5%) demonstrated excessive engagement, and 113 (29%) exhibited dependency. Low anxiety levels were observed in 47 respondents (12.1%), moderate levels in 207 (53.2%), and high levels in 135 (34.7%). It was found that those with gadget dependency have high anxiety levels, less frequently moderate, and never low. Those without dependency tend to have low or moderate anxiety levels. Respondents with excessive engagement with gadgets more often report moderate or high anxiety levels, indicating a correlation between gadget dependency and anxiety. The factors most troubling to respondents included: addiction to gadgets, information overload, lack of physical activity, bad news, and loss of connection due to malfunctioning or dead gadgets. The most popular and effective methods to overcome anxiety include: communication with others, watching movies, listening to music, walking, reading books, and engaging in sports. Conclusions. A correlation was established between gadget dependency and anxiety levels: individuals with dependency are more prone to increased anxiety. The most concerning factors for people include addiction to gadgets, information overload, lack of physical activity, bad news, and loss of connection due to faulty gadgets. Positive impacts on overcoming anxiety are noted from communication with others, watching movies, participating in sports, and other activities.
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