It seems that smartphones are omnipresent in today’s society. Almost everyone from Sandy, Utah to the East Coast carries a smartphone at all times. But while these devices can be quite useful, the evidence is becoming increasingly clear that they can also serve as harmful distractions, in some instances even causing couples to enter marriage therapy.
A recent study from Baylor University identified several common smartphone behaviors that when left unchecked can ultimately have a detrimental effect on relationships.
One commonly-cited behavior observed in the study has since been dubbed “phubbing.” According to Fortune, this odd-sounding word “refers to the practice of zoning out (or snubbing) one’s partner in order to focus on the all-important Android or iOS device.” This includes checking one’s smartphone when the conversation seems to lag, something that many in Sandy and elsewhere have undoubtedly experienced.
While this behavior may seem relatively minor, the consequences can easily lead to the need for marriage therapy. Nearly half of those surveyed in the study had been “phubbed” by their partners, while 22.6 percent of all those who participated in the survey reported that the smartphone habits of their partners had created problems in their relationships.
Other consequences of “phubbing” included greater levels of depression reported by spouses of those who overused their smartphones, caused by decreased relationship and life satisfaction that resulted from that behavior.
Indeed, the ofttimes compulsive and obsessive behavior regarding the way some people check their smartphones has led some to wonder whether this qualifies as an addiction (another issue that commonly forces couples in Sandy and elsewhere to undertake marriage therapy).
It is clear that smartphones and digital media aren’t going away anytime soon. As such, individuals need to be more conscious of the way they use these technologies, especially when they are around other people.
For some, this may require an honest assessment of their technology usage. And while it may be difficult to put away one’s smartphone and pay attention to what is actually taking place in the real world, it is certainly worth avoiding the need for marriage therapy.
Couples in Sandy and across the nation can work together in making this change. Have an honest discussion with your partner regarding smartphone and other technology use, as well as ways to ensure that the use of these devices doesn’t detract from meaningful family time. Making these simple changes now can ensure a happier, healthier future for the relationship.
Kevin Johnson is a relationship writer reporter for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Swinton Counseling. Follow on Twitter
A recent study from Baylor University identified several common smartphone behaviors that when left unchecked can ultimately have a detrimental effect on relationships.
One commonly-cited behavior observed in the study has since been dubbed “phubbing.” According to Fortune, this odd-sounding word “refers to the practice of zoning out (or snubbing) one’s partner in order to focus on the all-important Android or iOS device.” This includes checking one’s smartphone when the conversation seems to lag, something that many in Sandy and elsewhere have undoubtedly experienced.
While this behavior may seem relatively minor, the consequences can easily lead to the need for marriage therapy. Nearly half of those surveyed in the study had been “phubbed” by their partners, while 22.6 percent of all those who participated in the survey reported that the smartphone habits of their partners had created problems in their relationships.
Other consequences of “phubbing” included greater levels of depression reported by spouses of those who overused their smartphones, caused by decreased relationship and life satisfaction that resulted from that behavior.
Indeed, the ofttimes compulsive and obsessive behavior regarding the way some people check their smartphones has led some to wonder whether this qualifies as an addiction (another issue that commonly forces couples in Sandy and elsewhere to undertake marriage therapy).
It is clear that smartphones and digital media aren’t going away anytime soon. As such, individuals need to be more conscious of the way they use these technologies, especially when they are around other people.
For some, this may require an honest assessment of their technology usage. And while it may be difficult to put away one’s smartphone and pay attention to what is actually taking place in the real world, it is certainly worth avoiding the need for marriage therapy.
Couples in Sandy and across the nation can work together in making this change. Have an honest discussion with your partner regarding smartphone and other technology use, as well as ways to ensure that the use of these devices doesn’t detract from meaningful family time. Making these simple changes now can ensure a happier, healthier future for the relationship.
Kevin Johnson is a relationship writer reporter for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Swinton Counseling. Follow on Twitter