Study Shows Cell Phones Damaging Relationships; Partners More Ignored Than Connected
A study by researchers from Baylor University found out that the distractions brought about by cell phones could cause problems in romantic relationships, and that involved parties are at risk of depression.
The phenomenon now dubbed "Pphubbing" or partner phone snubbing, occurs when one or both parties in a relationship are distracted by their phones when they are together. Surveyed respondents felt that when they were snubbed, it created a rift between partners, lowering their satisfaction of the relationship. This feeling of dissatisfaction further led to depression.
Another example of cellphones damaging relations is the concept of "technoference," or when technology in general encroaches on people's lives and relationships.
This idea was discussed in length by a Today article, only this time focusing on married couples. Those surveyed reported that because of technoference, they fought more with their partners. This made them feel bad about their relationships, again leading to dissatisfaction and ultimately, depression.
Attachment to cell phones and other mobile devices unknowingly creates stress and anxiety. People suffering from these may not notice it immediately, but their actions are often projected to their loved ones or people they are in a relationship with.
Lindsay Holmes of the Huffington Post lists several ways to avoid pphubbing and technoference. One is to reserve some time for a device-free activity, not just for an hour, but for the whole day, if possible. Sports and other physical activities is one way to keep couples occupied.
They could also volunteer, or tackle home improvement projects on their free time. Signing out of email after the workday and disabling notifications at home can also help keep eyes away from mobile devices, as well as reduce work-related stress even at home.
There are may other ways to avoid these problems, all it takes is the willingness and cooperation from all parties involved.
