Research Reference 3

PALM CREST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

SY 2019-2020
Smartphone Addiction: Its Effects on the Physical and Psychological State of Junior High
School Students in PCIS
A Thesis Proposal
Presented to
MS. MAY ANN DELA CRUZ
Palm Crest International School
In Partial Fulfillment
Of the Requirements for the Subject
Elective English 10
by
JERSH MIKAELA S. DALIDA
May 03, 2020
PALM CREST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
SY 2019-2020
November 14, 2019
Ms. ELVIRA IVY T. MANUEL
Academic School Principal
Palm Crest International School
Dear Ms. Manuel,
The topic of my Thesis Project is “Smartphone Addiction: Its Effects on the Physical
and Psychological State of Junior High School Students in PCIS,” focusing on how smartphone
addiction affects the physical and psychological state of junior high school students in Palm
Crest International School. This subject is of interest to me because I want to see how a
perennial problem now addressed as smartphone addiction affect how well the student
function. I intend to focus on the factors that leads to smartphone addiction present among the
junior high school students of Palm Crest International School.
In the paper, the I will answer the following questions: “What are the different factors
that lead to smartphone addiction that are present among the junior high school students in
PCIS?”, “How does smartphone addiction affect how well the junior high school students
function?”, and “What are the effects of smartphone addiction to the psychological and
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physical state of junior high school students in PCIS?”. With documented evidences, I will
prove that smartphone addiction really affects the psychological and physical state of students.
I have located books, magazine articles, including many researches on Frontiers in
Psychiatry database. I plan to use these sources extensively. The following are the three best
sources I have discovered in my initial research:
[Internet Addiction, Smartphone Addiction, and Hikikomori Trait in Japanese Young
Adult: Social Isolation and Social Network by Masaru Tateno, Alan R. Teo, Wataru
Ukai, Junichiro Kanazawa, Ryoko Katsuki, Hiroaki Kubo7 and Takahiro A. Kato]
[frontiersin.org] “As the number of internet users increases, problems related to internet
overuse are becoming more and more serious. Adolescents and youth may be particularly
attracted to and preoccupied with various online activities. In this study, we investigated the
relationship of internet addiction, smartphone addiction, and the risk of hikikomori, severe
social withdrawal, in Japanese young adult. Internet technology has changed our daily lives
dramatically and altered the way we communicate as well. As social media applications are
becoming more popular, users are connected more tightly to the internet and their time spent
with others in the real world continues to decrease. Males often isolate themselves from the
social community in order to engage in online gaming while females use the internet as to not
be excluded from their communications online. Mental health providers should be aware of the
seriousness of internet addictions and hikikomori.”
[Impact of mobile phone addiction on adolescent’s life: A literature review by Vandana
Goswami, Dr. Divya Rani Singh] [frontiersin.org] “Mobile phone usage is so strongly
integrated into young people’s behavior that symptoms of behavioral addiction, such as cell
phone usage interrupting their day –to-day activities. Main aim of this paper is the reviews
investigate some aspects of the emerging literature on the impact of mobile phone on
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adolescent’s life. There are several reviews addressing the definition, Mobile phone addiction
symptoms, Assessment of Mobile phone addiction, Negative effect of Mobile phone addiction
on adolescents and some reviews addressing the role of Mobile phone addiction on
adolescent’s mental and physical health. Youth is more inclined towards using mobile phones
for activities other than communication than older generation because in adolescence stage,
people are more susceptible to changing fashion trends and style, building them more Tech
savvy which creates certain behavioral disorders. On the contrary, administrators and teachers
frequently consider the use of cell phones by students at schools, restraining them from their
education and this arises as hurdles in their education. Moreover, mobile phones have aided in
smoothening the progress of social release of youngsters from parental authority independently
outside their home along with their phones. Over usage of the mobile phone leads to
physiological health hazards like headaches, earache, warmth sensation, fatigue and
musculoskeletal symptoms. Usage of mobile phones during driving is one of the leading causes
of accident, and some controversy still exist in the over usage of the mobile phone whether it
produces tumor or not. Mobile-addicts can be seriously affected at the psychological level.
They don’t show any physical and psychological symptoms, their disorder goes unnoticed by
others.”
[Relationships Among Smartphone Addiction, Stress, Academic Performance, and
Satisfaction With Life by Maya Samaha and Nazir S.Hawi] [sciencedirect.com] “Results of
several studies have suggested that smartphone addiction has negative effects on mental health
and well-being. To contribute to knowledge on this topic, our study had two aims. One was to
investigate the relationship between risk of smartphone addiction and satisfaction with life
mediated by stress and academic performance. The other aim was to explore whether
satisfaction with life mediated by stress and academic performance facilitates smartphone
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addiction. To identify test subjects, systematic random sampling was implemented. A total of
300 university students completed an online survey questionnaire that was posted to the student
information system. The survey questionnaire collected demographic information and
responses to scales including the Smartphone Addiction Scale - Short Version, the Perceived
Stress Scale, and the Satisfaction with Life Scale. Data analyses included Pearson correlations
between the main variables and multivariate analysis of variances. The results showed that
smartphone addiction risk was positively related to perceived stress, but the latter was
negatively related to satisfaction with life. Additionally, a smartphone addiction risk was
negatively related to academic performance, but the latter was positively related to satisfaction
with life. Smartphone use has been changing daily routines, habits, social behaviors,
emancipative values, family relations and social interactions. The constant checking and/or use
of smartphone applications 24 h a day has been linked to sleep disturbances, stress, anxiety,
withdrawal and deterioration in well-being, decreased academic performance, and decreased
physical activity Fortunately, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
(DSM-5) addressed this behavior when it introduced a non-substance addiction (Internet
gaming disorder) as a psychiatric diagnosis.
For my primary source, I discovered a review article written by a group of psychiatrists
from Madrid Spain that analyzed the concept of cell-phone addiction as well as its prevalence
and its psychological features. The group mentioned in the article, “Cell-Phone Addiction: A
Review,” that other than substance addiction, behavioral addiction like the cellphone or
smartphone addiction also takes a toll on the psychological and mental state of the youth.
I am aware of all the major requirements and due dates, and I agree to take pride in my
Thesis Project. I will fully participate in the project and respect the comments and suggestions
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of both my peers and instructors. I understand the definition of plagiarism and promise not to
plagiarize; I will maintain integrity by correctly citing all my research sources. Finally, I will
strive for excellence in all work that makes up this important project, producing a paper truly
worthy of the subject requirement.
Truly yours,
Jersh Mikaela S. Dalida
Grade 10-Faraday
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The researcher would like to express her deepest gratitude for the invaluable assistance
and support that the following people gave her throughout her journey in writing her thesis.
Their expertise, concern, and efforts were greatly appreciated and valued by the researcher
while writing her thesis.
Ms. Elvira Ivy Manuel, the academic principal of Palm Crest International School,
who approved and saw potential in the researcher’s topic. The researcher would also like to
thank Ms. Manuel for her great insights regarding the posed problems of the topic of the
research. Her expertise regarding behaviors and well-being helped pushed the researcher to
continue with her studies.
Ms. May Ann Dela Cruz, the researcher’s thesis adviser, and Ms. Ma. Elenita
Lunaria, the researcher’s class adviser, who gave the researcher the needed strength and
motivation throughout the thesis writing process. They served as the guide of the researcher
and they gave commendable advices and insights regarding the researcher’s topic. Their time
and effort did not go in vain.
Michelle Dalida and Jerson Dalida, the researcher’s beloved parents, who never
doubted the researcher’s capabilities to accomplish the thesis paper. The researcher would like
to thank them for their immense love, concern, support, and care for the researcher. She
personally wants to thank her father for accompanying her throughout the sleepless nights in
the process of writing her research.
Patricia Tan, the researcher’s best friend who suffered with her while they were both
writing their research and thesis paper. She provided moral support and emotional stability for
the researcher.
Deaga Castro, the researcher’s closet friend after her best friend, who made her laugh
during her meltdowns and breakdowns.
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Grade 10-Faraday, the researcher’s classmates, who stayed with her through thick and
thin throughout the school year.
The junior high school students in Palm Crest International School, who did not
hesitate to be part of this thesis. This thesis would not be possible without the gathered data
from these respondents.
The panel of judges, who went out of their way to take time and read, scrutinize, and
critic the thesis paper for its improvement and betterment.
And of course, to the Almighty Father, who served as the researcher’s strength and
motivation throughout the process. His divine providence, grace, and mercy truly kept the
researcher strong. and made all of this possible. All of this is for his Holy Name. To God
always be the Glory!
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ABSTRACT
In the light of various studies about behavioral addictions, the problem
of smartphone addiction arose. Smartphone addiction, according to Dr. Greenfield, is the
overuse, misuse, or abuse of one’s smartphone. Though not clinically recognized in the DSM-
5, studies concluded that it is prevalent nowadays. The aim of this thesis is to identify the
different effects of smartphone addiction on the physical and psychological state of junior high
school students in Palm Crest International School. Another goal is to determine the different
factors that lead to smartphone addiction present among the students. It will prove that
smartphone addiction really affects how well the junior high school students function.
The researcher used a qualitative method of research and she made use of 2 research
instruments, a questionnaire and an interview to observe the different causes, symptoms, and
effects of problematic smartphone use or smartphone addiction.
Majority of the respondents claimed that they observed themselves using their
smartphone excessively and they have noticed several effects of their smartphone use in their
physical and psychological state.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE PAGE ……………………………………………………………………………….. i
APPROVAL SHEETS ………………………………………………………………………ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ……………………………………………………………… vii
ABSTRACT ………………………………………………………………………………... ix
CHAPTER I. INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study …………………………………………………………………….. 3
Statement of the Problem ……………………………………………………………………. 6
Significance of the Study ……………………………………………………………………. 7
Scope and Delimitation ……………………………………………………………………… 8
CHAPTER II. REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Differences between Cellphone and Smartphone …………………………………………… 9
Prevalence of Smartphone Addiction ……………………………………………………….. 9
Causes of Smartphone Addiction …………………………………………………………... 11
Symptoms of Smartphone Addiction ………………………………………………………. 12
Effects of Smartphone Addiction in the Physical State of Junior High School Students ….. 13
Effects of Smartphone Addiction in the Psychological State of Junior High School Students … 14
CHAPTER III. METHODOLOGY
Research Methodology ……………………………………………………………………... 15
Research Instruments ………………………………………………………………………. 16
Research Locale ……………………………………………………………………………. 17
Respondents ………………………………………………………………………………... 18
CHAPTER IV. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Data Interpretation: Profile Variables …………………………………………………….... 20
Data Interpretation: Questionnaire (Yes or No) ……………………………………………. 23

Data Interpretation: Questionnaire (Always, Sometimes, Never) ………………………….. 35
Data Interpretation: Questionnaire (Physical and Psychological Effects) …………………. 41
Data Interpretation: Interview ……………………………………………………………… 45
CHAPTER V. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Conclusion ………………………………………………………………………………….. 53
Recommendations ………………………………………………………………………….. 56
CHAPTER VI. QUESTIONNAIRE AND INTERVIEW SHEETS
Student’s Profile ……………………………………………………………………………. 57
Questionnaire ………………………………………………………………………………. 58
Interview …………………………………………………………………………………… 60
CHAPTER VII. BIBLIOGRAPHY AND DEFINITION OF TERMS
Definition of Terms ………………………………………………………………………… 61
Bibliography ………………………………………………………………………………... 63
CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
The recent development and enhancement of different functions of smartphone opened
up different areas of interest among adolescents and teenagers. This emerging popularity has
triggered global concerns regarding the abuse and the problematic use of the said smartphone.
Smartphone, according to Cambridge Dictionary, refers to a mobile phone that can be used as
a small computer and that connects to the internet. Technology addiction expert, Dr. David
Greenfield, refers to smartphones as “the world’s smallest slot machine.” He explains that
smartphones, just like slot machines, operate on a variable reinforcement schedule. “Every
once in a while you get a reward… a piece of information, a text, an email, an update…
something comes through that you find salient or pleasurable, but you don’t know when you’re
going to get it, what it’s going to be and how good it’s going to be.” This small device already
plays an essential part in the lives of growing adolescents for it provides different gratifications
such as entertainment, social interactions, research, and as a medium of communication. Its
popularity and the growing attachment that the youth has for it triggered worldwide concern.
Smartphone addiction, according to Dr. Greenfield, is the overuse, misuse, or abuse of devices.
This term was used by WHO in 1964 and is categorized either as a substance abuse or a
behavioral addiction. According to an article written in psychguides.com, an American
Addiction Centers Resource, overuse of cell phone or smartphone can result in a number of
different physical and psychological problems that may cause permanent damage or be difficult
to treat such as digital eye strain, neck problems, sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety,
withdrawal, and relationship problems.
This thesis focused on how smartphone addiction affects the physical and psychological
state of junior high school students in Palm Crest International School. It also examined the
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different factors present among the junior high school students that lead to smartphone
addiction. This thesis has three objectives: first, to determine the different factors that lead to
smartphone addiction that are present among the junior high school students, second, to
determine how smartphone addiction affect how well the student function, and third, to identify
the different effects of smartphone addiction to the physical and psychological state of junior
high school students. This thesis will answer the following questions in relation to the
objective: “What are the different factors that lead to smartphone addiction that are present
among the junior high school students in PCIS?”, “How does smartphone addiction affect how
well the junior high school students function?”, and “What are the effects of smartphone
addiction to the psychological and physical state of junior high school students in PCIS?”.
The researcher used a qualitative method of research because according to an article
written in Emma Eccles Jones Research Center, qualitative research is a process of naturalistic
inquiry that seeks in-depth understanding of social phenomena within their natural setting. It
focuses on the "why" rather than the "what" of social phenomena and relies on the direct
experiences of human beings as meaning-making agents in their everyday lives. Qualitative
research uses deep understanding of how people perceive their social realities and in
consequence, how they act within the social world. The researcher chose this type of method
for the thesis is aimed to answer the effects of smartphone addiction to the physical and
psychological state of junior high school students and to explain how and why it affects these
two states.
The researcher used the three best sources in her initial research, first, a similar research
entitle “Internet Addiction, Smartphone Addiction, and Hikikomori Trait in Japanese Young
Adult: Social Isolation and Social Network” by Masaru Tateno, Alan R. Teo, Wataru
Ukai, Junichiro Kanazawa, Ryoko Katsuki, Hiroaki Kubo and Takahiro A. Kato, second, a
literature review in relation to smartphone addiction entitled “Impact of mobile phone addiction
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on adolescent’s life: A Literature Review” by Vandana Goswami, Dr. Divya Rani Singh,” and
third, a research article entitle “Relationships Among Smartphone Addiction, Stress, Academic
Performance, and Satisfaction With Life” by Maya Samaha and Nazir S. Hawi.
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STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
Smartphone addiction now poses as a global concern due to the growing attachment
and connection of adolescents to their smartphones. Although smartphone addiction wasn’t
mentioned in Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM–5), an authoritative
volume that defines and classifies mental disorders in order to improve diagnoses, treatment,
and research, and the International Classification of Diseases 11th Revision, a global standard
for diagnostic health information, it still poses as a concern for it affects not only the physical
state of adolescents but also their psychological state. However, these effects aren’t known by
many. Thus, this research examined the different effects of smartphone addiction and the
factors that contribute to smartphone addiction and to its effects.
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SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
Smartphone addiction is widespread throughout the junior high school students even
though its causes, its symptoms, and its effects remain unknown to many. Smartphone
addiction is often caused by the different activities that can be done through smartphones such
as scrolling through social media platforms, texting, messaging, compulsive web surfing,
watching videos and gaming. It causes several effects on the physical and psychological state
of adolescents and it includes digital eye strain, neck problems, sleep disturbances, depression,
anxiety, withdrawal, and relationship problems.
This thesis will be beneficial to the students because it will discuss the different causes
or factors that lead to smartphone addiction and the different effects of smartphone addiction.
Through this study, they will be able to identify whether or not they are addicted to their
smartphones, the causes of smartphone addiction and its effects.
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SCOPE AND DELIMITATION
The general focus of this study is to identify the effects of smartphone addiction to the
physical and psychological state of junior high school students, which are the grades 7 through
10 students, in Palm Crest International School.
This research study yearns to assess the different factors, causes, and symptoms that
leads to smartphone addiction. It will determine the views of the students regarding smartphone
addiction. Through this study, the researcher aims to orient the adolescents about the growing
threat of smartphone addiction.
This study is delimited to the junior high school students in the Girls’ Section of Palm
Crest International School. The researcher is aware that some factors, causes, symptoms, and
effects of time management.
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CHAPTER II
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
This chapter will show foreign and local literature that the researcher will use in order
to identify the different causes, symptoms, and effects of smartphone addiction to the physical
and psychological state of junior high school students in PCIS.
2.1 Differences between Cellphone and Smartphone
Fendelman (2020) indicated that a smartphone refers to a cellphone with advanced and
developed features. One of the obvious and straightforward difference between the two is that
cellphone is a cheaper alternative to a smartphone. Cellphones have straightforward and simple
interface while smartphones have sophisticated, advanced, and complex operating system with
an option to customize the options based on the user’s preferences. A smartphone is a compact
or miniature computer considered to be more convenient and can receive calls and a cellphone
performs the same functions but seen to be simpler and basic. Smartphones can connect to a
virtual store and can access a myriad of apps that turn phones into something much more
complex than a regular cellphone. However, both are often regarded as the same nowadays
considering that both are under the category “mobile phone.”
2.2 Prevalence of Smartphone Addiction
Archer (2013) stated that smartphones are slowly overtaking the daily lives of its users
due to the fact that they carry out a plethora of their daily activities in their smartphones such
as reading e-mails, checking bank balances to investing, and even sharing pictures and updates
regarding one’s daily lives.
Sahin et.al (2013) emphasized that due to the developing technology, smartphone use
became part of our daily routine. Virtual networks were regarded as the main advancement in
technology that increased the prevalence of new generation mobile phones, the smartphones,
that appealed to the masses.
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Roberts et.al (2014) stated that due to the long-held fascination towards technology,
smartphones became more relevant especially to students. Due to this fascination, it
encouraged people to spend relatively more time with technology and this fascination is seen
to be more intense in young adults. Students view these smartphones as an integral part of who
they are seemingly an extension of themselves. Present-day cellphones, smartphones, are seen
to be vital in maintaining social relationships and satisfying mundane whims and exigencies.
A similar research was cited, Moeller (2010) stating that smartphone use has become such a
significant part of student life that its importance becomes and invisible, resulting to students
not realizing their level of dependency or addiction to their smartphones. Although the concept
of addiction has several definitions it has been a common notion that addiction is described as
the constant use of a substance despite knowing the fact that it has a negative effect and
consequences suffered once used. Recently, behavioral habits have been considered as part of
addiction like gambling, exercise, eating, Internet use, and smartphone use.
Samaha and Hawi (2016) explained that since smartphones replaced cellphones and to
a certain extent also replaced personal computers, it became an integral part of the lives of all
ages worldwide. People started feeling inseparable from their smartphones. Smartphones have
been changing daily routines, habits, lifestyle, social behaviors, emancipative values and
morals, family relations, and social relations.
Alosaimi et.al (2016) stated that smartphones have increasingly became a major part of
our lives due to its numerous benefits such as convenient and easier access to information,
social connectivity and easier social interactions, and its mobility. Although cellphone
addiction was suggested as early as 1982, before the widespread use of mobile phones, this
behavior may be rooted from technology dependence, in recent years, there has been a
concerning increase of problems regarding the problematic smartphone use, and has been
publicized as an increasing social problem.
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Reyes (2018) then provided statistics concerning the rise and fall of smartphone usage
in 2017 in the Philippines. In 2017, there was a decline of smartphone use by 7 percent
amounting to almost 15 million smartphone units. This data equals to 59%, an 8% drop from
2016. This is due to the fact that the average selling price of smartphones increased by at least
PHP 6,859 ($134).
2.3 Causes of Smartphone Addiction
Sahin et.al (2013) stated that because smartphones allow connection between two
devices through a virtual network, it became more convenient for users to communicate and
entertain themselves. This then gives them satisfaction and pleasure to the users therefore
causing smartphone addiction. A similar research was cited in Evaluation of Mobile Phone
Addiction Level and Sleep Quality in University Students, Griffiths (2003) suggesting that
everything that gives excitement causes addiction. From this statement alone, Sahin et.al
concluded that the cause of the increasing rise of smartphone usage is because smartphones are
used in an exciting situation. Furthermore, basing off the more recent considerations regarding
the definition of addiction in behavior, if a behavior gives pleasure and satisfaction, gets rid of
boredom or stress, these factors intensifies the person’s desire in behaving in a certain way.
Smartphone addiction both gives pleasure to the users therefore reliving stress and anxiety and
it can be suggested that this situation causes mobile phone addiction
Roberts et.al (2014) concluded that due to the increasing reliance on smartphones
among young adults, an evolution from habit to an addiction is triggered. Smartphone addiction
cases may begin when an initially little harm or harmless behavior, such as owning a
smartphone for convenience and safety purposes, begins to evoke negative habits and effects
and the users become increasingly dependent with it. This addiction will more likely be seen
when the user can no longer control their use. The user goes from liking it to wanting it. When
users experience feelings of happiness and enjoyment from a particular activity, in this case
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using their smartphones, they are more likely to engage in this particular activity again. The
addiction to smartphone may be caused by pretending to operate it under the principle of
negative reinforcement meaning they use its expected functions but with the purpose of
avoiding negative situations such as awkward social situations therefore encouraging higher
involvement with and more time spent with their smartphones.
AlBarashdi et.al (2016) concluded that generally, people who have psychological and
emotional issues such as depression, loneliness, social anxiety, impulsivity, and distraction
easily get addicted to smartphone. Smartphone addiction can develop through intense focus
and dependability on a specific application of the whole smartphone itself. This is because
these smartphones are inclusive with activities that interfere with a person’s life such as
checking, posting, or interacting on social media platforms.
Smith et.al (2019) enumerated that heavy smartphone use can be caused by symptoms
of underlying problems such as stress, anxiety, depression or loneliness. However, at the same
time, it causes the exact same problems. Some use their smartphones as a form of security
blanket or a coping mechanism to relieve feelings of anxiety, loneliness, or awkwardness from
social situations further resulting to addiction.
2.4 Symptoms of Smartphone Addiction
Goswani and Singh (2016) reviewed from one of the earliest relevant studies regarding
smartphone addiction that those who are addicted to their smartphone usually keep their
smartphone turned on even when not in use. They stated that the youth are more susceptible to
high use and problematic use of smartphone. Some symptoms also include impulsiveness,
mounting tension prior to using the device, and failure to commit to control strategies set for
oneself and withdrawal symptoms.
AlBarashdi et.al (2016) cited a similar research by Diane (2005) stating that smartphone
addiction appears as physical as well as psychological signs and symptoms. Individuals who
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are too attached and addicted to their phone tend to do little physical activities. His group
concluded that psychological symptoms of those who are potentially addicted to their feel
frustrated, angry, and concerned at times when they were unable to use their smartphone.
Scott (2018) then enumerated several symptoms of smartphone addiction that he had
observed while writing his article posted in medium.com. People who are addicted to their
smartphone usually are unable to spend any period away from their phone. They also tend to
neglect their friends and family and struggle to stay present just because of their smartphone.
One main sign that one is addicted to their phone is when people around them complain about
their smartphone use.
Henshaw (2019) summarized a list made by psychologist for the six main symptoms
that are linked to smartphone addiction. Those who are addicted to their phone usually
encounter feelings of unease, anxiety, or irritability when they cannot access their phone.
Usually, those who are addicted tries to decrease the amount of their usage but fails to do so
because of the inability to resist the impulse to use their phone.
2.5 Effects of Smartphone Addiction in the Physical State of Adolescents
Gutierrez et.al (2016) enumerated several physical problems that have been reportedly
resulted from smartphone abuse including rigidity and muscle pain, eye fatigue, blurry vision,
irritation, ocular redness, ang pain and weakness in the thumbs and wrist.
Goswani and Singh (2016) mentioned that over usage of smartphone leads to
physiological health hazards like headaches, earache, warmth sensation, fatigue and
musculoskeletal symptoms. They reviewed that the ear is the first organ that deals with
smartphones because it is usually affected by the elevated energy deposition brought about by
smartphones. It was also found that exposure to electromagnetic fields emitted by smartphone
prior to sleep decreased rapid eye movement and quality of sleep. Extreme fatigue and tiredness
are also evident to those who use their smartphone excessively.
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Panova and Carbonell (2018) stated that one characteristic of smartphone addiction is
the impairment of physical health like lightheadedness, blurred vision, and pain in the wrist or
at the back of the neck.
2.6 Effects of Smartphone Addiction in the Psychological State of Adolescents
Gutierrez et.al (2016) also enumerated psychological effects of smartphone addiction
together with its physical effects. Problematic and conscious use of smartphone especially in
social confrontations result loss of interest in other activities and social isolation. Another
psychological effect includes insomnia and sleep disturbances, unwanted feelings like anxiety,
irritability and the feeling of being lost when separated from smartphone.
Panova and Carbonell (2018) mentioned the loss of control is a component of
psychological dependence when it comes to smartphone addiction. Often times, people who
are addicted to their phone find themselves unable to control the impulse to use their
smartphone. They find themselves engaged on their smartphone for longer periods of time than
they intended.
Henshaw (2019) listed off psychological effects of smartphone addiction collected
from different studies. This includes sleep deprivation, depression and loneliness particularly
when the youth are more engaged in interacting through cyber space than in real life therefore
causing social isolation, anxiety, and stress.
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CHAPTER III
METHODOLOGY
This chapter will show the different methods and instruments used for the study, the
research locale, and the respondents in order to discuss and interpret the data that will be
gathered.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This thesis was conducted through the use of qualitative method of research for this
thesis was aimed to have an in-depth inquiry and understanding regarding a rising problematic
social behavior, the smartphone addiction. The qualitative method of research is commonly
focused in answering as to “why” and the direct experiences of human beings as meaning-
making agents in their everyday lives. It focuses on different people perceives arising social
problems and situations. The researcher specifically chose this method of research for the thesis
is aimed to determine the different symptoms, causes, and effects of smartphone addiction to
the physical and psychological state of junior high school students on Palm Crest International
School.
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RSEARCH INSTRUMENTS
The researcher used the following research instruments to gather needed data for the
thesis project:
A questionnaire, is a research instrument consisting of a series of questions for the
purpose of gathering information from respondents as defined by Saul McLeod. According to
O’Leary (2014), it is used to discover what the masses are thinking. The process of collecting
data through a questionnaire is known as surveying.
An interview, primarily done in qualitative research and occur when researchers ask
one or more participants general, open-ended questions and record their answers. Interviews
may be useful to follow-up with individual respondents after questionnaires to further
investigate their responses as stated by McNamara (1999).
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RESEARCH LOCALE
This thesis was conducted in the Junior High School Girls’ Section of Palm Crest
International School located in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is headed by Ms. Elvira Ivy T.
Manuel as the academic principal. This school is only a small school having not more than 600
students. This area was chosen as the research locale for according to Roberts et.al (2013),
students have long-held fascination over smartphones making them more susceptible to
smartphone addiction and due to their fascination over smartphones, they will be more likely
to get addicted and dependent on their smartphones.
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RESPONDENTS
This research is mainly intended for the junior high school students ranging from 11 to
16 years of age. The respondents will be gathered from the four different junior high school
levels in Palm Crest International School.
Based on Grade and Section
Grade 10-
Faraday Grade 7-
16% Copernicus
27% Grade 7- Copernicus
Grade 8- Linnaeus
Grade 9-
Rutherford Grade 9-Rutherford
25% Grade 10- Faraday
Grade 8- Linnaeus
32%
Based from the chart above, it is seen that 9 out of 56 respondents or 16% of the
respondents are from the grade 10 level, 14 out of 56 respondents or 25% of the respondents
are from the grade 9 level, 15 out of 56 respondents or 27% of the respondents are from the
grade 7 level, and 18 out of 56 or 32% of the respondents are from the grade 8 level.
Their grade level doesn’t have any significance in this thesis because their grade level
doesn’t affect their smartphone usage. Even if the respondents have different grade levels, their
purpose of using their smartphones are similar to each other.
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Based on Age Group
11-12 years old

18%
15-16 years old
37% 11-12 years old
13-14 years old
15-16 years old
13-14 years old

45%
The researcher divided the respondents in three different age groups. Based from the
chart above, 18% or 10 out of 56 respondents are from the 11 to 12 years old age group, 37%
or 21 out of 56 respondents are from the 15 to 16 years old age group, and 45% or 25 out of 56
respondents are from the 13 to 14 years old age group.
The age of the respondents also doesn’t affect the conclusion of this thesis because even
if they have different age groups, their smartphone usage is similar and is unaffected by their
age.
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CHAPTER IV
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS
The researcher used two research instruments in data gathering: a questionnaire,
which consists of 2 profile variables question and 17 survey questions and an interview
section, which consists 5 essay questions. The questionnaire was collected through online
surveying because the data gathering was conducted during the COVID-19 lockdown period.
DATA INTERPRETATION: PROFILE VARIABLES
PROFILE VARIABLES: Chart 1.1
Time Alloted in Using Smartphone
7%
30%
20%
30 minutes-1 hour
2 hours- 3 hours
4 hours to 5 hours
Others
43%
As seen on Chart 1.1, 7% of the respondents, or 4 out of 56 respondents stated that they
only use their smartphone 30 minutes to an hour a day. One factor of that contributed to this is
that some ought to use other gadgets such as their tablets or their laptops. 20% of the
respondents, or 11 out of 56 respondents stated that in using their smartphones, they allot an
average time of 2 hours to 3 hours a day. 30% of the respondents, or 14 out of 56 respondents
stated that they allot an average time of 4 hours to 5 hours in using their smartphones. 29% of
the respondents, or 16 out of 56 respondents stated that they use their smartphones beyond the
given time. One respondent stated that she uses her smartphone nearly more than 15 hours a
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day. I personally interviewed this respondent and she stated that her parents do not reprimand
her anymore because they are used to seeing her with her smartphone. Other respondents under
this percentage mentioned that they use their smartphones in an average time of 7 hours to 11
hours a day. According to helpguide.com, smartphone usage beyond 7 hours or unhealthy hours
spent in using one’s smartphone increases the risk of acquiring smartphone addiction. 44% of
the respondents or 26 out of 56 respondents stated that they allot an average time of 4 hours to
5 hours when using their smartphones.
PROFILE VARIABLES: Chart 1.2
Uses of Smartphone
3%
25%
Social Media
30%
School Purposes
Online Shopping
Video Games
Entertainent
Others
12% 27%
3%
Based from Chart 1.2, 3% of the respondents stated other uses aside from the ones
enumerated. Some specified that they use their smartphones for reading e-books, writing
stories, for convenience like Waze, UberEats, or GPS, and for drawing and painting using
different applications. 3% of the respondents then stated that they use their smartphones for
online shopping. Online shopping, according to businessdictionary.com, is the act of
purchasing products or services over the Internet. This is one of the factors that causes
smartphone addiction because it is part of impulse-control problems under online compulsions,
as stated in helpguide. org. Online shopping can damage the user socially and financially
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especially when it becomes impulsive buying. 12% of the respondents stated that because of
videogames, they use their smartphones excessively. According to a similar research focused
on internet game addiction conducted by Wang et. al (2019), due to the easy access to Internet
with a portable device like a smartphone, adolescents became more vulnerable to addiction that
can take a toll on their psychological and developmental characteristics because video gaming
became more accessible for the youth. 25% of the respondents then stated that they use their
smartphones for social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and the
likes. According The Conversion (2018), adolescents usually engage in social because it
increases their dopamine, and thus they became pleasured and their stress is relieved. The youth
are also hard-wired to seeking affirmation and acceptance in social setting. Now too much
engagement in social media can make the users obsessed with the functions of their
smartphones. 27% of the respondents chose school purposes as a reason as to why they use
their smartphones. Respondents specified that they use their smartphones for researches,
making PowerPoint presentations for performance tasks and reports, news updates for their
Social Studies class, for their class group chats, and since the respondents are locked down in
their homes, they use their smartphones for Google Classroom, and for Zoom meetings. Now
this factor is beyond the control of the researcher and the respondents because reference
materials and resources are now easily found in their smartphones. Their smartphones made
researching and access to their documents easier. 30% of the respondents stated that they use
their smartphones for entertainment purposes like watching in YouTube, Netflix, VLive, and
other streaming applications. The respondents turn to their smartphones whenever they feel
bored or they have nothing to do. This is usually characterized when they feel excited and
joyful whenever they hear the notifications from their phones. According to Roberts et.al
(2014), when a smartphone user experiences feeling of happiness and enjoyment from a
particular activity, they are more likely to engage in that particular activity again.
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DATA INTERPRETATION: QUESTIONNAIRE (YES OR NO QUESTIONS)
QUESTIONNAIRE: Chart 2.1
Question #1: Do you feel like you use your

smartphone excessively?
No
14%
Yes
86%
In Chart 2.1, which shows the results of data gathered for question number 1: “Do you
feel like you use your smartphone excessively?”, 14% of the respondents or 8 out of 56
respondents stated that they do not feel like they are using their smartphone excessively. Stated
as follows are some answers from the respondents as to why they feel like they do not use their
smartphones in an excessive amount of time:
“I don’t think that I use my phone excessively because I know my time limit and I know
when to stop using it. When I do sports it makes me use it less.”
“I use my phone only when I have free time or when I need it for school works. I think
what makes me use it less is because I don’t have time for it anymore.”
“I use my phone only when I have free time or when I need it for school works. I think
what makes me use it less is because I don’t have time for it anymore.”
One common reason why they feel like they do not use it too much is because they
know their time limit. One respondent stated that because of their responsibilities at home and
in school, they just cannot find time to use their smartphone anymore. If they use their
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smartphone, it is for school purposes only. They also mentioned that when they use their
smartphone too much, it makes their eyes painful and dry. 86% of the respondents stated that
they feel like they use their smartphone excessively. Stated as follows are some answers from
the respondents stating why they feel like they use their smartphone too much:
“Because I lose track of time sometimes when it comes to using my phone.”
“The main reason why I use my smartphone for a long period of time making me use it
excessively is because I get to be updated of what is going on in the world and at the same time
smartphone is the one that lessens my stress in my life.”
“I think that I use my smartphone for a long period of time is because whenever I finish
my projects or anything important, I use my free time to entertain myself and end up losing
track of time.”
“I think I use my phone too much. Every morning and every night, my phone is beside
me. I try to lessen the usage of my smartphone by doing chores, reading books, etc.”
“I think I use my smartphone excessively because I'd sometimes lose track of the time.
And what makes me use it excessively is that the Internet has a lot of uses like for school,
communication, entertainment, etc.”
“I feel like I use my smartphone excessively because there are times that I get distracted
and end up not using it for the purpose I intended. Sometimes when I'm researching, I tend to
check my other apps (Youtube, Instagram) which then delays my work.”
“I am very addicted to my phone and everything inside it. There is so much possibility
with using our gadgets that makes me want to involve myself in it so much. There’s women,
there’s games, there’s a lot of things to watch, a lot of things to read, a lot of things to edit.”
Based from the reasons of the respondents, they stated that they use their smartphone
excessively because they often lose track of time when they use it. They get too into their
smartphone usage that they fail to notice how much time they spend while using it. Some also
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stated that after using their smartphone for school purposes, they also use it to relieve their
stress and to rest. Due to the various functions and activities that can be done in their
smartphone, they tend to get sidetracked when doing their task and lose focus. According to
Dr. Colman Noctor, a psychotherapist at St. Patrick’s University Hospital, if work,
performance, or the ability to engage in task is compromised by the respondents’ screen time,
and if their mood and concentration depend whether they have access to their smartphone,
technology, and the internet, it already becomes a problem.
Question #2: Do you rely on your smartphone when you do your

tasks such as school works, home works, performance tasks, etc.?
No
18%
Yes
82%
In Chart 2.2 where the results for question number 2: “Do you rely on your
smartphone when you do your tasks such as school works, home works, performance
tasks, etc.?” is stated, 18% of the respondents or 10 out of 56 respondents stated that they do
not usually rely on their smartphone in performing various activities or tasks like their school
works. This is a sign of healthy smartphone use because they do not usually depend on their
smartphone to accomplish their task. 82% of the respondents or 46 out of 56 respondents
mentioned that they do rely and depend on their smartphone every time they do their task and
accomplish their work. This is one of the symptoms or signs of smartphone addiction because
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they become dependent on their smartphone when they do their task. According to Lee et.al
(2016), since smartphones are portable and provide convenient Internet access, and it allows
multitasking because of its wide range of functions, chances of dependency to it becomes
higher. Due to social, and academic demands like accomplishing tasks for school, maintaining
good communication with friends, and excessive use of social media, the respondents engage
in problematic smartphone usage.
Question #3: Do people, like your mother, father, or

teachers, complain with your smartphone use?
No
21%
Yes
79%
In Chart 2.3 intended for the question: “Do people, like your mother, father, or
teachers, complain with your smartphone use?”, it shows that 21% of the respondents or 12
out of 56 respondents stated that people surrounding them like their parents and teachers do
not complain with their smartphone use. Stated as follows are the reasons why:
“The reason why my mom doesn’t complain about my smartphone usage is because she
knows that I use it for school purposes like researching, etc.”
“Well, all of us in the household use our gadgets frequentlt so, it's common for us to
see each other using our gadgets a lot.”
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“They don’t mind anymore. They have accepted my faith with using my phone
excessively.”
“Because I have a screen time limit with social media and games. And down time with
all apps except call and I follow and I am disciplined with it.”
“They don’t complain because I guess I finish first the important things that I would do
and would actually ask permission from my parents that I would be using my phone for this
amount of time.”
Some respondents mentioned that their parents do no complain anymore because they
are either used to their excessive smartphone usage or it is already normalized in their house.
One respondent stated that her parents do not complain anymore because even they use their
smartphones in their household. Some respondents then stated that their parents do not
complain because they ask permission and they explain why they will be using their
smartphones. 79% of the respondents or 44 out of 56 respondents mentioned that their parents
or teachers complain because of their smartphone usage. Stated as follows are some of the
reasons why:
“Based from what I’ve observe one reason is that they are worried for our health
condition such as increased anxiety, feelings of loneliness, and low self-esteem.”
“My parents have said that I use my phone minutes when I wake up and before I sleep
which leads me to sleeping after midnight.”
“Because I would use it for almost 4-5 hours, and they would complain. Its because it
would damage my eyes more and my health, so they would tell me not to overuse it at times.”
“My parents complain about my smartphone use because I spend too much time on it
and it sometimes hinders me from doing my schoolwork or chores.”
“Yes, seeing that once there are people around me, I do not really pay that much
attention and I isolate myself from other people instead of interacting with them.”
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“They say I use my smartphones too much to the point where I do nothing around the
house.”
One common reason why they think their parents or teachers complain to their
smartphone usage is because they are seen using it excessively. They stated that their parents
are concerned for their worsening eyesight and negligence of their health because they tend to
stay up late just because they are using their smartphones. One respondent stated that her
parents notice how she isolates herself when there are people around because she just uses her
smartphone. Now hearing complaints from people around you because of your excessive
smartphone use is one of the signs of smartphone addiction. This is because they are the ones
who notice the changes in behavior and actions of the respondents.
Question #4:Are you aware of the time you spend in

using your smartphone?
No
18%
Yes
82%
Shown in Chart 2.4 are the results of the data gathered from the question: “Are you
aware of the time you spend in using your smartphone?”, it shows that 18% of the
respondents or 10 out of 56 respondents stated that they are not aware of the amount of time
that they use their phones. The reason of this is that they usually lose track of time because of
their smartphone usage. Another factor is that the amount of time they spend when using their
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smartphone usually depends on the amount of task at hand. Majority of the respondents, 82%
of the respondents or 46 out of 56 respondents stated that they are aware of the amount of time
they spend when they use their smartphone. However, even if they are aware of the time they
spend with their smartphone, they usually cannot control it because it already became part of
their lifestyle and habits.
Question #5:Do you often feel angry when you’re not

using your smartphone?
Yes
12%
No
88%
Based from Chart 2.5 with the question: “Do you often feel angry when you’re not
using your smartphone?”, 12% of the respondents or 7 out of 56 respondents stated that they
often feel angry when they are not using their smartphone. According to helpguide.com, anger
or irritability when one is not using their smartphone is a common warning sign of smartphone
addiction. This is because when smartphone usage becomes an essential part of their everyday
life, not having it on hand may lead to feeling uncomfortable, irritable, and stressed because
there is something “missing.” According to findings of AlBarashdi et.al (2016), adolescents
who are addicted to their smartphones tend to feel frustrated, angry, and concerned at times
when they are unable to use their smartphones. 88% of the respondents or 49 out of 56
respondents then stated that they do not often feel angry when they are not using their
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smartphones. Although they mentioned that they do not feel angry when their smartphone is
not with them, some tend to feel frustrated and anxious when they are not using their phones
as seen on the following questions.
Question #6: Do you feel like there is a need to use your

smartphone more?
Yes
36%
No
64%
In Chart 2.6 that shows the results for the question: “Do you feel like there is a need
to use your smartphone more?”, it is seen that 36% of the respondents or 20 out of 56
respondents stated that they feel like there is a need for them to use their smartphone more.
Although they already use their smartphones in an excessive amount of time, some still feel
like there is a need to use it more. According to an article posted in psychguides.com, a need
to use the smartphone more and more can cause problematic smartphone use. Although some
try to use their smartphone less, they usually fail because there will be a need for them to
bounce back to it especially when they get tempted to check their smartphones when they see
the notifications. Some also feel like they need to use it more because they feel relaxed,
satisfied, and relieved every time they use their smartphones. According to Panova et.al (2018),
some finds a need to use their smartphone more in order to achieve the same satisfaction they
felt from before. However, increased time on their smartphone can indicate a more problematic
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use of it. 64% of the respondents or 36 out of 56 respondents stated that they do not feel like
there is a need for them to use their smartphone more. This is because they are already aware
of the amount of time they spend with their smartphone and they feel like it is already enough.
Question #7: Do you turn to your smartphone every time

you feel unwanted feelings such as anxiety and
depression?
No
34%
Yes
66%
In Chart 2.7 with the question: “Do you turn to your smartphone every time you feel
unwanted feelings such as anxiety and depression?”, it shows that 34% of the respondents
or 19 out of 56 respondents stated that they do not turn to their smartphones when they feel
unwanted feelings. This means that using their smartphone is not part of their coping
mechanism when they are feeling anxious or sad. However, 66% of the respondents or 37 out
of 56 respondents stated that they turn to their smartphones when they are feeling any unwanted
feelings. Some use their smartphone as a “security blanket” to relieve the feelings of anxiety,
loneliness, or awkwardness especially in social situations. Some respondents tend to rant in
social media platforms when they feel anxious or depressed to be able to release their emotions.
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Question #8: Do you think your smartphone usage

affects you physically?
No
21%
Yes
79%
In Chart 2.8 with the question: “Do you think your smartphone usage affects you
physically?”, it is seen that 21% of the respondents or 12 out of 56 respondents do not think
that their smartphone usage affects them physically. This is because they either do no notice
the physical effects of their actions or their smartphone usage has little to no effect in their
physical well-being. 79% of the respondents or 44 out of 56 respondents think that their
smartphone usage affects them physically. This means that they noticed that how they use their
smartphone actually have effects on their physical well-being. This also shows that they are
aware of the effects of their smartphone usage.
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Question #9: Do you think your smartphone usage

affects you psychologically?
No
21%
Yes
79%
In Chart 2.9, showing the results for the data gathered from the question: “Do you think
your smartphone usage affects you psychologically?”, like the previous question, 21% of
the respondents or 12 out of 56 respondents stated that they do not think their smartphone usage
affects them psychologically. This means that they either do not notice the effects of the way
they use their smartphone or it has little to no noticeable effect in their psychological well-
being. 79% of the respondents or 44 out of 56 respondents then stated that they think the way
they use their smartphone affect them psychologically. This shows that they are aware that
their smartphone usage actually affects their psychological well-being.
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Question #10: Do you know that you can get smartphone

addiction?
No
7%
Yes
93%
Although smartphone addiction does not appear in DSM or The Diagnostic and
Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder, it still poses as a real problem. In a similar research by
Gutierrez et.al (2016), the existence of smartphone addiction has been questioned without
necessarily considering the concept of addiction. However, based on multiple researches since
problems regarding excessive use of smartphone arose, it was concluded that smartphones offer
activities that can lead to problematic use. In Chart 2.10 with the question: “Do you know that
you can get smartphone addiction?”, 7% of the respondents or 4 out of 56 respondents stated
that they do not know that they can get addicted to their smartphones. 93% of the respondents
or 52 out of 56 respondents know about smartphone addiction. This shows that majority of the
respondents are aware that they can get attached to their smartphones and more likely engage
in problematic smartphone usage.
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DATA INTERPRETATION: QUESTIONNAIRE (ALWAYS, SOMETIMES, OR
NEVER QUESTIONS)
Question #1: How often do you feel like you’re using

your smartphone too much?
Never
3%
Always
29%
Sometimes
68%
As seen on Chart 3.1 with the question: “How often do you feel like you’re using your
smartphone too much?”, 3% of the respondents or 2 out of 56 respondents stated that they
never felt like they use their smartphone too much. Some reasoned out that they use other
gadgets like their laptop or their tablet instead of their smartphone. 29% of the respondents or
16 out of 56 respondents mentioned that they always feel like they use their smartphone too
much. Majority of the respondents which consist of 38 out of 56 respondents, 68% of the data
gathered, stated that they sometimes feel like they use their smartphones excessively. This is
because some stated that their smartphone usage varies daily. One respondent mentioned in the
question “How much time do you allot when using your smartphone?”, that her smartphone
usage depends on her activities. If she has a lot of school works that need to be done, she spends
little time on her smartphone.
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Question #2: Do you stay up at night just using your

smartphone?
Never
12%
Always
27%
Sometimes
61%
In Chart 3.2 with the question: “Do you stay up at night just using your
smartphone?”, 12% of the respondents or 7 out of 56 respondents stated that they do not stay
up at night because of their smartphone. This emits a healthy use of smartphone because their
smartphone usage does not interrupt their sleeping schedule. 27% of the respondents or 15 out
of 56 respondents said that they always stay up late at night because of their smartphone. One
respondent answered in one question that her parents are concerned because of her smartphone
usage because “its affecting my eyesight and they're saying that I don't rest my eyes anymore,
and I sleep late because I keep on using my phone.” The respondents usually lose track of time
whenever they are using their smartphone. They do not notice time already passed thus,
resulting to them staying up late. Majority of the respondents, 34 out of 56 respondents or 61%
of the data stated that they sometimes stay up late at night because of their smartphone. This
shows that majority of the junior high school students in Palm Crest International School
sometimes engage in problematic smartphone use that makes them sleep late at night. This
also means that they can only control their smartphone usage occasionally and there are still
times where they sleep late or stay up because of their smartphone.
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Question #3: How often do you get worried or have

anxiety whenever you’re not holding your smartphone?
Always
9%
Never
30%
Sometimes
61%
According to helpguide.org, people with smartphone addiction usually feel feelings of
dread, anxiety, or panic when they are not holding their smartphones. This is because they have
a fear of “missing out” so they compulsively check their smartphones. As seen in Chart 3.3
with the question: “How often do you get worried or have anxiety whenever you’re not
holding your smartphone?”, 9% of the respondents or 5 out of 56 respondents exude this
type of thinking. Due to their deep connection and their attachment to their smartphone, they
feel unwanted feelings when they are not holding it. A similar article posted in The Washington
Post mentioned that a smartphone addict will feel stress, tension, agitation, restlessness and
anxiousness whenever his/her phone is not in his/her sight. It doesn’t matter how long the
smartphone is separated from them. 30% of the respondents or 17 out of 56 respondents stated
that they never felt worried whenever they are not using their smartphone. This is a sign of
healthy smartphone use because it doesn’t affect them much when they are not using or holding
their smartphone. However, 61% of the respondents or 34 out of 56 respondents mentioned
that they sometimes feel anxious or worried when they are not using their phone. This means
that they felt worried and anxious when they are not holding their smartphone. Majority of the
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junior high school students in Palm Crest International School have felt unwanted feelings
because they are not holding their phone more than once in their life.
Question #4: Do you often miss your tasks because of

your phone?
Always
7%
Never
27%
Sometimes
66%
In Chart 3.4 with the question: “Do you often miss your tasks because of your
phone?”, 7% of the respondents or 4 out of 56 respondents stated they always miss their task
because of their smartphone. According to Montag et.al (2016), smartphones distract us to the
point where we are unable to achieve a state of flow at work. Excessive use of smartphone
creates greater leisure hours and decreases the amount of time for work-related activities. 27%
of the respondents or 15 out of 56 respondents said that they never miss their tasks just because
of their smartphone. This means that they have full control on their smartphone usage and they
do not let it come in the way when they are accomplishing their tasks. 66% of the respondents
or 37 out of 56 respondents stated that they sometimes miss their tasks because of their
smartphone use. This means that majority of junior high school students in Palm Crest
International School missed their task at least once in their lives because of their smartphone.
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Question #5: Do you check your smartphone the

moment you wake up?
Never
11%
Always
50%
Sometimes
39%
In Chart 3.5 with the question: “Do you check your smartphone the moment you
wake up?”, it is seen that 11% of the respondents or 6 out of 56 respondents stated that they
never checked their smartphone the moment they wake up. This also suggest a healthy and
unproblematic smartphone use because they do no reach out to their smartphone first thing
after waking up. 39% of the respondents or 22 out of 56 respondents mentioned that they
sometimes check their smartphone the moment they wake up. According to an article by The
Wisdom Post, smartphones already replaced alarm clocks. The first thing the adolescents do
before getting up is checking their smartphone and scrolling through social media. This is the
first symptom of being a smartphone addict. 50% of the respondents or 28 out of 56 respondents
stated that they always check their smartphone the moment they wake up. Majority of the
respondents made checking their smartphone the moment they wake up as part of their morning
routine.
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Question #6: Do you depend on your smartphone when doing

your everyday tasks?
Always
9%
Never
16%
Sometimes
75%
In Chart 3.6 with the question: “Do you depend on your smartphone when doing
your everyday tasks?”, it is seen that 9% of the respondents or 5 out of 56 respondents stated
that they always depend on their smartphone when they’re doing their every day task. One
respondent stated that it is because her smartphone is convenient to use and makes her life
easier like using GPS and the Weather app. According to Cha et.al (2018), the portability and
accessibility of a smartphone make it possible to use it anywhere and for any duration. It also
offers several conveniences in our lives. It can offer numerous gratifications such as sociability,
entertainment, research material, and even time management and coping strategies. 16% of the
respondents or 9 out of 56 respondents stated that they never depend on their smartphone when
they carry out everyday activities. One respondent mentioned that she depends on her iPad
when she’s doing her everyday task. Majority of the respondents which consist of 42 out of 56
respondents stated that they sometimes depend on their smartphone in accomplishing their
everyday activities. Some uses their smartphone just for entertainment after doing their school
works and activities. Some respondents also use their smartphone just to unwind, read books,
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and scroll through social media and not necessarily in accomplishing their specific activities
and tasks.
DATA INTERPRETATION: QUESTIONNAIRE (PHYSICAL AND
PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS)
Question #7: What are the effects of your smartphone use that
you noticed on yourself?
Less Prouctivity Pain and

9% Discomfort in
your Eyes
9%
Social
Isolation Dry Eyes
6% 9%
Sleep Deprivation Blurred Vision

and Disruption 8%
10%
Depression Eye Fatigue

3% 5%
Stress
9% Headache
9%
Anxiety
5% Neck Problems
Back 9%
Problems
6%
Reduced Hearing
3%
As shown in Chart 4.1 with the question: “What are the effects of your smartphone
use that you noticed on yourself?”, 3% of the data gathered states that one of the effects of
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their smartphone use is reduction in their hearing. According to a literature review by Goswami
et.al (2015), one of the main physical effect of smartphone addiction is earache or reduced
hearing. This is because the ear is the first organ that deals with smartphones and there is an
elevated energy deposition in the ear as compared to other organs. According to Naresh K.
Panda, MS, DNB, chairman of the department of ear, nose, and throat at the Post Graduate
Institute of Medical Education and Research in Chandigarh, India, those who use their
smartphones for more than an hour daily are more likely to have high-frequency losses.
Another reason is if one constantly plugs headphones or earphones while using their
smartphone, it may bring up hearing issues such as reduced hearing and earache. Another 3%
of the data then shows those who chose depression as one of the psychological effects that they
noticed. When one spends too much time on her smartphone, she neglects other parts of her
life. Northwestern University in Illinois, United States of America concluded that the more
time you spend on your phone will more likely make you feel depressed. Although based on
similar data from the previous questions where respondents stated that they turn to their
smartphone when they feel unwanted feelings, this coping mechanism can also make her feel
worse. 5% of the respondents also stated that eye fatigue is the physical effect that they’ve
noticed. This physical effect is under digital eyestrain with the other eye-related effects. Due
to the blue light emitted by the respondents’ smartphone, their eyes tend to feel tired and
overused especially when they are already using their smartphone for a long period of time.
Another 5% of the data stated that the psychological effect they noticed is anxiety. Based from
similar researches, anxiety and depression often times regarded together. Staring too much at
the screen will make the users feel anxious and stressed. Anxiety caused by smartphone
addiction is driven by the habit formed by the respondents like checking their smartphone first
thing after they wake up, depending their daily tasks on it, and coping through using it.
According to Tateno et.al (2019), adolescents and the youth may be attracted to and
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preoccupied with various activities that their smartphone can provide. This can result to social
isolation. 6% of the respondents mentioned that because of their smartphone usage, they tend
to isolate themselves. This is one of the psychological effects of smartphone addiction. One
respondent stated from a previous question that asked if people around her are concerned
because of her smartphone use and she answered: “Yes, seeing that once there are people
around me, I do not really pay that much attention and I isolate myself from other people
instead of interacting with them.” It is seen in her answer that when one is too engaged in her
smartphone, she tends to avoid social interactions and use her phone instead. According to an
article posted in The Wisdom Post, the youth tend to neglect their social life because of their
problematic smartphone use. They become isolated and less connected physically to those
around them. Another 6% of the data gathered shows that the respondents noticed that they
have back problem because of their smartphone. According to Preidt (2019) in a news article,
excessive use of smartphone in a slouching position can cause strain in the back. This causes
back problems and back pain when they use their smartphone. Another physical effect of
smartphone is blurred vision. 8% of the respondents stated that this is the effect they noticed
because of the way they use their smartphone. Due to the blue light emission from smartphones,
the user’s eyes can get damage and can cause either temporary or permanent blurry vision. This
happens when they use their smartphone for an excessive amount of time. Chart 4.1 also shows
9% of the respondents stating that they experience headaches because of their smartphone. This
is often linked to digital eyestrain as well because smartphones put an excessive amount of
strain on the visual system of adolescents. Similarly, 9% of the respondents also noticed that
the effect of their smartphone use are neck problems. Commonly referred as “text neck”, the
youth are more prone to this effect because the spend hours looking down at their smartphone.
According to the studies conducted by Al-Hadidi et.al (2019), focusing on the correlation
between using smartphone and neck and shoulder pain, it was concluded that prolonged flexion
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neck flexion causes neck and shoulder pain. This problem is commonly noticeable in junior
high school students in Palm Crest International School since they often find themselves
slouching or looking down whenever they are using their smartphones then causing neck
problems. 9% of the respondents stated that they noticed that they feel discomfort and pain in
their eyes because of their smartphone. Another 9% stated that having dry eyes is another effect
that they have noticed. Both of these effects are under digital eye strain. Dry eyes is a condition
that occurs when the eyes do not produce tears, which results in eyes becoming red, swollen,
and irritated. This also causes pain and discomfort in the eyes. According to a report published
in BMC Ophthalmology, a database of articles dedicated for ophthalmology, after two or more
hours in front of a digital screen can cause physical discomfort and pain in the eyes known as
digital eye strain. Due to excessive use of smartphone, the eyes can also begin to burn and each
causing discomfort in the eyes. Like anxiety, stress can also be a psychological effect of
smartphone addiction. 9% of the respondents noticed that this is an effect to their psychological
well-being. According to the findings of Vahedi (2017), although there are no comprehensive
theory or explanation that have been tested as to why stress and anxiety are felt by the youth
with smartphone addiction, they concluded that having constant access to a smartphone might
cause stress to the user. 9% of the respondents then stated that they noticed that they have lower
productivity because of their smartphone usage. Since smartphones offer a variety of functions
that can pave the way for multitasking, when the respondents try to diverge their attention, rest
and unwind after doing their school works, they tend to lose focus and become less productive.
They will be too occupied with the different activities they can do with their smartphone. Those
who ticked the always and sometimes boxes in the question: “Do you depend on your
smartphone when doing your everyday tasks?”, also more likely checked this effect. This
is because they lose track of time, lose focus, and eventually leading to lower productivity.
10% of the data shows that the effect they notice because of their smartphone use is the sleep
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deprivation and disruption. Since most of the respondents sleep with or around their phone, the
bright light emitted by their screen disrupts their sleep. Smartphone use could increase the
amount of time it takes to fall asleep. This light pushes back their sleep time and affects their
melatonin, the hormone which helps them sleep. Some also stated that before they sleep, they
scroll through social media platforms and this makes them unconsciously spend more time
using their smartphone than actually sleeping. Based on the findings of Chang et.al (2015),
smartphones will make you take longer to fall asleep because the blue light emitted by it
stimulates daylight, therefore inhibiting the brain’s production of melatonin.
DATA INTERPRETATION: INTERVIEW
QUESTION NO. 1: How important is your smartphone to you? Why do you say so?
“It’s a little bit important for me because I use my smartphone for school works and I
also need it to keep contact with some of my family members like my mom.”
“Very important. It is because it usually helps me for research in school and to connect
or to message my friends or family away from me.”
“Very Important because it gives me updates about the world and with my family in the
Philippines. It also entertains me when I don’t have anything to do.”
“Pretty important. It is because it is our source of communication and entertainment.
However, there are still more important things than it, such as family.”
“Not really. My answer in “not really” mainly because I only use my smartphone when
I need I specifically when I need to do my research and also for my entertainment.”
“My smartphone is very important to me. This is mainly because it helps me keep up
with updates, communicate with my friends, and do my school works that involve using apps
such as Microsoft PowerPoint.”
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“I think that my smartphone is important to me because that is where I usually spend
doing my hobby with which are reading e-books and where I research topics used for my
homework.”
“My smartphone is important and an essential item whenever we're going somewhere
because it could serve as an object that can help us in different situations (such as calling the
ambulance if someone gets hurt and etc.) smartphones also connect us with people not only
from our school but also in the Philippines and the world.”
“My smartphone is important to me but not to the extent where I would cry and get mad
if I don’t have it, smartphone keeps me entertained when I’m bored and helps me on my
research for school, this is the reason why it is important to me.”
“I’d say that my smartphone is very important to me because it’s something that I can
use to easily connect with people, it something that updates me on what’s happening in the
world and it serves as a great source of entertainment.”
“For me sometimes it’s not important and sometimes it’s important because if needed
its important but for my own needs its important because my smartphone gives me comfort and
relief, I can be lost in my thoughts.”
“My smartphone is pretty important to me but it’s not something that I can't live
without; I tend to use my smartphone for school related activities more than for
entertainment.”
Majority of the respondents stated that their smartphone is very important to them. They
said that it is very important to them because it gives them entertainment. As seen in the data
gathered for the profile variables, most of the respondents shaded entertainment as a use of
their smartphone. Since using their smartphone increase their dopamine level, they deem their
smartphone very important because it gives them entertainment, satisfaction, and pleasure.
Another reason why their smartphone is important is because it helps them keep updated with
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their environment. Most of the respondents stated that they mostly use their smartphone for
news update especially for their Social Studies class. One respondent mentioned that her
smartphone is a form of connection between her and her loved ones who live in the Philippines.
One respondent stated that her smartphone helps her cope by giving her comfort and relief
because it makes her forget of her unwanted feelings like anxiety or sadness. However, one
respondent stated that her smartphone only has little importance to her because she just uses it
for school works and to stay in contact with her parents and family.
QUESTION NO. 2: If you use your smartphone for a long period of time, what are usually
the factors or causes why you use it?
“One very big factor that causes me to use my smartphone for a long period of time is
not being able to keep track of time when using my phone. And even if I set a reminder for me
to do something (like advance study), sometimes I end up snoozing it so that I would finish
watching or reading something on my phone.”
“The factors/causes why I use for a long period of time is because some of my school
works take a long time to get done especially if it’s that I want the details to be specified, ill
mostly use my phone for entertainment purposes because I get bored most of the time.”
“One of the factors is that I see comfort in using my phone. There are times where I
just want to lay down forever, so that’s what I do, which is unhealthy but there are really times
where lost motivation in doing things. “
“One of the factors is that I get bored easily, and usually when I am in a big crowd of
people, I feel anxious and use my phone as a distraction.”
“It is VERY entertaining. It helps me get out of social interactions sometimes. It is very
addictive because of the number of things I could do with it.”
Most of the respondents mentioned that they lose track of time whenever they use their
phone. This is one of the factors why they use their smartphone for an excessive amount of
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time. The reason why they lose track of time is because they use their smartphone for
entertainment. Even if they allot a specific time for their smartphone, they still exceed in that
allotted time. According to an article by Geere (2017), psychologists at the Univeristy of Kent
showed that people who surf the web using their smartphone usually suffer from impaired time
perception because their attention mechanism is fully stimulated. One respondent mentioned
that she uses her smartphone a lot because she turns to it when she is bored or when she has
nothing to do. According to an article posted in The Wisdom Post, this is action is often
explained as the euphoria experience. Since adolescents get excited whenever they hear
notifications from their smartphone, they get occupied thus forgetting their boredom. Another
respondent mentioned that because of the various activities she could do with her smartphone,
she uses it to get out of social interactions thus isolating herself.
QUESTION NO. 3: Why and how do you think your smartphone use affects you?
“It can affect us mentally because of different people you see online, they can be a big
influence on you whether good or bad.”
“In a good way it helps me with school works. In a bad way when I use my smartphone
for a long period of time it can be bad for me because sometimes, I’m having back pain and
neck pain.”
“My smartphone affects me in a way that I became shy and try to avoid as much social
interaction as I can.”
“It sometimes gives me headaches to the point where I want cry if I’ve used it too much.
But it also makes me less productive, which causes me to pass late because I procrastinated.”
“I personally think that my smartphone use affects me when I don’t know how to
interact with that person I just text them because I am good at socializing.”
Majority of the respondents stated that they notice physical and psychological effects
because of their smartphone. One respondent mentioned that because of her smartphone, she
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often gets headaches to the point where she would want to cry. Based from the answers of most
respondents, they noticed that they have these various effects because of their excessive use of
smartphone. It makes them less productive and lazy because they often get caught up with their
activities in their smartphone. One respondent also mentioned that she already do not socialize
personally and instead, she socialize using her smartphone thus making her feel isolated in a
social situation. One common reason as to why they use their smartphone so much is because
of their school works. This is beyond their control because the amount of task given to them
varies daily. However, the respondents admitted that when they rest and unwind using their
smartphone, they often lose track of time, exceed their leisure time, and just proceeds to using
their smartphone and neglect their tasks.
QUESTION NO. 4: Do you notice habits formed because of the way you use your
smartphone? What are these habits?
“I don’t really notice if I have habits because of the way I use my smartphone. One
habit that I know is when I need to do homework or I need to study I always keep my phone
beside me even though it disturbs me.”
“Yes, I sleep late, eat late, I get anxiety, I get restless but I learn more, I learn how to
socialize, and I learn to be aware of what is happening.”
“Yes, when I wake up, I immediately check my smartphone. I also check if I have
messages. I use my phone immediately when I wake up because I always put my alarm there
and after I cancel my alarm that’s when start to use my phone.”
“I noticed that one habit has been formed because of the way I use my smartphone.
That is to check my phone for updates and my messenger to check if anyone has messaged me
while I offline.”
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“The habits I have formed are that I tend to stay inside my room with my phone, I tend
to be quiet, I tend to go to my phone when I don’t talk to someone and I always read e-books
more than books.”
“Habits that formed as I use my smartphone are checking my phone daily (usually when
I wake up), and carrying it almost everywhere (aside from the bathroom).”
“Yes, these habits are using my phone for several hours, I would get mad if someone
took my phone, and I would postpone doing my school works because I'm busy using my
phone.”
“Yes, I noticed some habits. Habits I have noticed are checking my phone when I wake
up in the morning, scrolling through my phone before sleeping, poor posture when using it,
blocking out my surroundings and staring at the screen often.”
“Yes. Often times I find myself looking for my phone the moment I wake up. I also have
a propensity of checking my phone for notifications even if I do not receive any.”
“I use my smartphone averagely and with discipline most of the time so some of the
habits that I noticed of myself that I can control my usage of the smartphone. I became more
productive and responsible. “
Panova et.al (2018) concluded in a similar research stated that when an activity
becomes the most important activity to the user, it dominates their thinking. Basing it off from
the answers of some of the respondents, many admitted that they think about their smartphone
frequently even if they are not using it. They go as far as to checking it most of the time even
if they do not receive any notifications. This proves that smartphone often interferes with their
thoughts, social life, and academic performance because they often postpone their school
works, they stay cooped up in their room because of their smartphone, and they usually get
mad or irritated when they are not using it. Since it already became an important part of their
life, they already have a hard time staying away from it. Even when going to the bathroom,
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they feel like there is a need to carry their smartphone. According to a statistic posted in an
article written by Sandra Henshaw, based on several independent studies, most adolescents use
their phone before sleeping. One respondent specified that she couldn’t sleep without using her
smartphone. This then results to her sleeping late because she would just continue using her
smartphone for hours. As opposed to the majority, one respondent stated that she became more
responsible and practiced proper self-discipline because of her smartphone. This is because she
practices proper self-control whenever she’s using her phone. She usually monitors her screen
time, and maintains her usual downtime. Based on her previous answers on other questions,
this respondent really refrains from problematic smartphone use and instead practices a
healthier and more positive habit with her smartphone usage.
QUESTION NO. 5: Are these habits positive or negative? Why?
“That one habit that I said is a negative because I know that it’s not good for me
especially for my studies because it keeps me distracted from whatever I’m doing.”
“These are both positive and negative because even though I have negative habits from
using my phone, I get to learn a lot.”
“I would say negative. As much as I am able to do my productivity, I feel like I damage
my eyesight and sometimes, I sort of want a break from my gadgets, but I keep coming back to
it and since we have e-class, I can’t get a day off from my gadgets.”
“Both positive and negative because it helps me socialize with my friends more than on
online and it affects my activeness physically where I tend to become lazy.”
“I would think that these habits are negative. The more we use our smartphones, the
more dependent we become. Using our smartphones for an excessive amount of time usually
lessens our productivity.”
“Some habits are positive like checking my phone as soon as I wake up, especially on
school days because some announcements are made late at night like 12 AM and I miss them
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since I was asleep. And some habits are negative like my poor posture, because it has negative
effects on me like back or neck pain.”
“Some are negative and some are positive, for positive if there’s internet I would check
news on what’s happening so far around the world, I would like checking on discoveries as
well around the world, and knowing these more would be nice and could help me know more.
For negative, I wouldn’t play outside anymore like I usually do, but instead stay indoor playing
games on my smartphone and browsing through social medias.”
“It goes both ways in my case, like the need to check it can lead to me being up to date
with everything that’s going on. Although it can also affect my way of thinking as I am exposed
to the media (like the beauty standards of society and how I try to fit in when it is really not
that needed) and it also causes me to lose focus on the reality and the present.”
The answers of the respondents regarding the question for the last essay varies from
being a positive habit or a negative habit. They noticed that some habits are positive even of
most of their habits are negative. They reasoned out that it is positive because through their
smartphone, the usually stay updated and aware of what is happening around them. Since they
are exposed to different social media platforms, it becomes advantageous for them in terms of
researching and reference materials. It is also positive for them because they get to maintain
close communication with their friends thus improving the quality of their friendship and
relationship. However, most of their habits are negative because they now tend to become more
dependent to their smartphone. Since they depend on their smartphone a lot, they become lazier
and that decreases their productivity. Some now chooses to stay at home and not engage on
any physical activities thus making them more tired. One respondent mentioned that her
exposure to social media then puts strain on her psychological well-being because she gets
affected by the standards of the community, she finds on the different platforms which causes
her to lose focus on the reality.
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CHAPTER V
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
CONCLUSION
Due to the advancement of different functions of smartphones, junior high school
students started engaging in problematic smartphone use now named as smartphone addiction.
Although some effects of smartphone addiction remain unknown to many, the junior high
school students in Palm Crest International School are aware of its effects in their physical and
psychological state.
The aim of this thesis is to prove that smartphone addiction really affects the physical
and psychological state of the junior high school students. Based on the gathered data, the most
salient effect of smartphone addiction is sleep deprivation and disruption. Most of the
respondents use their smartphones late at night thus prompting them to sleep later than expected
and decrease the quality of their sleep because the blue light emitted by smartphones inhibits
the production of melatonin. This affects both the psychological and physical state of the
respondents. Under the physical effects of smartphone addiction are neck problems, pain and
discomfort in the eyes and dry eyes. These effects have prominent effects on the physical state
of the junior high school students. Stress is one of the most evident effects that the respondents
noticed regarding their psychological state. One reason why is they got so used to holding their
smartphone that they get stressed out whenever they are not holding it. Another reason is
because of the content they see when using their smartphone. The respondents try to fit in the
social standards set by the different communities and group they engage in. Lower productivity
is another psychological effect most of the respondents noticed. Since they tend to lose track
of time when they are using their smartphone, they usually use it longer than they intend to
thus resulting to neglected tasks and responsibilities.
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Another objective of this thesis is to identify the symptoms of smartphone addiction
present in the junior highs school students of Palm Crest International School. The respondents
admitted to having at least 1 symptoms of smartphone addiction. Majority of the respondents
stated that people around them reprimand them and complain regarding their smartphone use.
Most of the respondents also turn to their smartphone whenever they feel unwanted feelings
like anxiety and depression and uses it as their security blanket.
The most common cause of smartphone addiction is because the respondents depend
on it for their every day task. Since smartphones provide convenience, they use its various
functions to make their lives easier. Since majority of the respondents use their smartphone for
entertainment and school purposes, it makes them more attached to it.
The final objective of this thesis is to identify how smartphone addiction affects how
well the students function. Socially speaking, the students become socially impaired because
of their excessive smartphone use. They are now uncomfortable of social situations and choose
to socialize online instead. Academically speaking, the respondents somehow function
efficiently since they have varied reference materials within their reach but if they get
sidetracked and occupied because of their smartphone, they tend to lose focus and they will
feel less productive afterwards.
To conclude, smartphone addiction is somehow present among the walls of Palm Crest
International School for majority of the respondents admitted to engaging in problematic
smartphone use. The junior high school students are aware of its effects in their physical and
psychological state. They noticed that they have developed both positive and negative habits
because of their smartphone. They get to be constantly updated and connected to their loved
ones and friends and in return, their social skills decreased.
According to Catriona Gray, “everything is good but in moderation”, and to take it in
the context of the problematic use of smartphones, the use of smartphone is advantageous
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especially in the midst of pandemic because it offers various platforms that make life easier
however, the junior high school should use it in moderation to be able to control their
smartphone use.
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RECOMMENDATIONS
Since problematic smartphone use is evident among the junior high school students of
Palm Crest International School, the researcher would like to recommend various things for in
relation to the findings of this thesis:
To the junior high school students of Palm Crest International School, the research
would like to suggest to strictly practice healthy smartphone use to be able to decrease the
effects they have noticed to their physical and psychological state. It is recommended monitor
their screen time and practice downtime. It will be very beneficial for them to start controlling
their growing attachment to their smartphone to be able to curb their smartphone addiction.
To the future researchers, in relation to the findings of this thesis, the researcher would
like to recommend to include the intermediate level to be able to find out when junior high
school students start getting attached to their smartphone. They can also focus on internet
addiction, another behavioral addiction, since it is one of the main causes of smartphone
addiction or problematic smartphone use.
To the parents and teachers of the junior high school students, since they will be the
ones noticing the behavior of the students, monitoring their screen time can also help in
developing self-control and self-discipline of the students. Their guidance will be much needed
by the junior high school students especially in making them understand that there are
underlying effects part of smartphone addiction.
To Palm Crest International School, the school can help address the issue by making
the students aware and making them understand that smartphone addiction does exist. Through
the help of the faculty and personnel, together they can address the rising problem of
smartphone addiction in Palm Crest International School.
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CHAPTER VI
QUESTIONNAIRE AND INTERVIEW SHEETS
STUDENT’S PROFILE
DIRECTIONS: Please provided the needed information based on the given question. Check
the box of your answer.
NAME (OPTIONAL): _______________________________________________________
GRADE AND SECTION:
Grade 7- Copernicus Grade 9- Rutherford
Grade 8- Linnaeus Grade 10- Faraday
AGE:
11-12 years old 15-16 years old
13-14 years old
How much time do you allot when you use your smartphone?
30 minutes to 1 hour
2 hours to 3 hours
4 hours to 5 hours
Others (Please specify): _________________________
What do you use your smartphone for? Check the boxes that apply to you.
Social Networking
School Purposes (Please specify): ________________________________
Online Shopping
Video Games
Entertainment (YouTube, Netflix, VLive, etc.)
Others (Please specify): __________________________________
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SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE AND INTERVIEW
DIRECTIONS: Please check the column of your answer.
QUESTIONS YES NO
1. Do you feel like you use your smartphone excessively?
If you checked YES, why do you think you use your smartphone for a long period of time?
What makes you use it excessively?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
If you checked NO, why do you think you don’t use it excessively? What makes you use it
less?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
2. Do you rely on your smartphone when you do your tasks
such as school works, home works, performance tasks, etc.?
3. Do people, like your mother, father, or teachers, complain
with your smartphone use?
If you checked YES, why do you think they complain about your smartphone usage?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
If you checked NO, why do you think are the reasons why they don’t complain about your
smartphone usage?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
4. Are you aware of the time you spend in using your
smartphone?
5. Do you often feel angry when you’re not using your
smartphone?
6. Do you feel like there is a need to use your smartphone
more?
7. Do you turn to your smartphone every time you feel
unwanted feelings such as anxiety and depression?
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8. Do you think your smartphone usage affects you
physically?
9. Do you think your smartphone usage affects you
psychologically?
10. Do you know that you can get smartphone addiction?
QUESTION ALWAYS SOMETIMES NEVER
1. How often do you feel like you’re using

your smartphone too much?
2. Do you stay up at night just using your
smartphone?
3. How often do you get worried or have
anxiety whenever you’re not holding
your smartphone?
4. Do you often miss your tasks because of
your phone?
5. Do you check your smartphone the
moment you wake up?
6. Do you depend on your smartphone when
doing your everyday tasks?
What are the effects of your smartphone use that you noticed to yourself? You can check
the boxes that apply to you.
Physical Effects Psychological Effects
Digital Eye Strain Anxiety
Pain and discomfort in your eyes Stress
Dry eyes Depression
Blurred Vision Sleep Deprivation and Disruption
Eye Fatigue Social Isolation
Headache
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Neck Problems (Pain in the neck Less Productivity
area)
Back Problems
Reduced Hearing Others (Please specify): ___________
1. How important is your smartphone to you? Why do you say so?

________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
2. If you use your smartphone for a long period of time, what are usually the factors or
causes why you use it?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
3. Why and how do you think your smartphone use affect you?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
4. Do you notice habits formed because of the way you use your smartphone? What are
these habits?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
5. Are these habits positive or negative? Why?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
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CHAPTER VII
BIBLIOGRAPHY AND DEFINITION OF TERMS
DEFINITION OF TERMS
Digital Eye Strain- also referred to as the Computer Vision Syndrome, a group of eye and
vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer, tablet, e-reader and cell phone
use; characterized by:
• eyestrain
• headaches
• blurred vision
• dry eyes
• neck pain
• shoulder pain
American Optometric Association
Dry eyes- a condition associated with inadequate tear production and marked by redness,
itching, and burning of the eye
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary
Sleep deprivation- exist when sleep is insufficient to support adequate alertness,
performance, and health, either because of reduced total sleep time or fragmentation of sleep
by brief arousals
Erica Richards, M.D., Ph.D., and Maryland Pao, M.D.
Smartphone- a cell phone that includes additional software functions (such as e-mail or an
Internet browser)
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary
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Smartphone addiction- a disorder involving compulsive overuse of the mobile devices,
usually quantified as the number of times users access their devices and/or the total amount
of time they are online over a specified period
Margaret Rouse
Social isolation- the absence of social interactions, contacts, and relationships with family
and friends, with neighbors on an individual level, and with “society at large” on a broader
level
14 Social Isolation Among Older Individuals: The Relationship to Mortality and
Morbidity
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
RESEARCH
Seong-Soo Cha and Bo-Kyung Seo: Smartphone Use and Smartphone Addiction in Middle
School Students in Korea: Prevalence, Social Networking Service, and Game Use
(ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Hafidha Sulaiman AlBarashdi, Abdelmajid Bouazza, Naeema Jabur, and Abdulqaqi Al-
Zubaidi: Smartphone Addiction Reasons and Solutions from the Perspective of Sultan
Qaboos University Undergraduates: A Qualitative Study
(graphyonline.com)
James Roberts, Luc Honore Petnij Yaya, and Chris Manolis: The Invisible Addiction: Cell-
phone Activities and Addiction Among Male and Female College Students
(ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Jocelyne Matar Boumosleh and Doris Jaalouk: Depression, Anxiety, and Smartphone
Addiction in University Students- A Cross Sectional Study
(journals.plos.org)
Sevil Sahin, Kevser Ozmedir, Alaattin Unsal, and Nazen Temiz: Evaluation of Mobile Phone
Addiction Level and Sleep Quality in University Students
(ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Fahad D. Alosaimi, MD, Haifa Alyahya, MD, Hatem Alshahwan, MD, Nawal Al Mahyijari,
MD, and Shaffi A. Shaik, MD: Smartphone Addiction Among University Students in
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
(ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Christoph Augner and Gerhard Hacker: Associations Between Problematic Mobile Phone Use
and Psychological Parameters in Young Adults
(link.springer.com)
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Arunrat Tangmunkongvorakul, Patou Masika Musumari, Kulvadee Thongpibul, Kriengkrai
Srithanaviboonchai, Teeranee Techasrivichien, S. Pilar Suguimoto, Masako Ono-
Kihara, and Masahiro Kihara: Association of Excessive Smartphone Use with
Psychological Well-Being Among University Students in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Jin-Liang Wang, Jia-Rong Sheng, and Hai-Zhen Wang: Addiction and Depression, Social
Anxiety, and Loneliness
(sciencedirect.com)
Fadi Al-Hadidi, Isam Bsisu, Saif Aldeen AlRyalat, Belal Al-Zu’bi, Rasha Bsisu, Mohammad
Hamdan, Tareq Kanaan, Mohamad Yasin, and Omar Samarah Association Between
Mobile Phone Use and Neck Pain in University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Using Numeric Rating Scale For Evaluation of Neck Pain
(ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Masaru Tateno, Alan R. Teo, Wataru Ukai, Junichiro Kanazawa, Ryoko Katsuki Hiroaki
Kubo and Takahiro A. Kato: Internet Addiction, Smartphone Addiction, and
Hikikomori Trait in Japanese Young Adult: Social Isolation and Social Network
(frontiersin.org)
Maya Samaha and Nazir Hawi: Relationships Among Smartphone Addiction, Stress,
Academic Performance, and Satisfaction with Life
(sciencedirect.com)
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JOURNAL
Tayana Panova and Xavier Carbonell: Is Smartphone Addiction Really an Addiction?
(akjournals.com)
Sehar Shoukat: Cell Phone Addiction and Psychological and Physiological Health In
Adolescents
(ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
William Thompson and Mica Thompson: Smartphones: Addiction, or Way of Life?
(scholarcommons.sc.edu)
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REVIEW
Samantha Sohn, Philippa Rees, Bethany Wildrige, Nicola Kalk, and Ben Carter: Prevalence of
Problematic Smartphone Usage and Associated Mental Health Outcomes Amongst
Children and Young People: A Systematic Review, Meta-analysis and GRADE of the
evidence
(bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com)
Jon Elhai, Robert Dvorak, Jason Levine, and Brian Hall: Problematic Smartphone Use: A
Conceptual Overview and Systematic Review of Relations with Anxiety and
Depression Psychopathology
(sciencedirect.com)
Zahra Vahedi and Alyssa Saiphoo: The Association Between Smartphone Use, Stress, and
Anxiety: A Meta-Analytic Review
(europepmc.org)
Jose De-Sola Gutierrez, Fernando Rodrigues de Fonseca and Gabriel Rubio: Cell-Phone
Addiction: A Review
(frontiersin.org)
Vandana Goswami and Dr. Divya Rani Singh: Impact of Mobile Phone Addiction on
Adolescent’s Life: A Literature Review
(homesciencejournal.com)
Naveenta Gupta, Sonia Garg, and Khushdeep Arora: Pattern of Mobile Phone Usage and Its
Effects on Psychological Health, Sleep, and Academic Performance in Students of a
Medical University
(pdfs.semanticscholar.org)
66 | P a g e
ARTICLES
Smartphone Addiction: ‘They are Weapons of Mass Distraction’ | Sylvia Thompson
(irishtimes.com)
Smartphone Addiction | HelpGuide
(helpguide.org)
Smartphone Addiction | Dale Archer
(psychologytoday.com)
Smartphone Addiction, What Causes It? | Leonard Scott
(medium.com)
Cellphones vs Smartphones | Adam Fendelman
(lifewire.com)
What is the Difference Between a Cell Phone & a Smartphone? | John Papiewski
(techwalla.com)
IDC Philippines Sees Growth of Smartphone and PC Usage in 2018 | Rizal Raoul Reyes
(businessmirror.com.ph)
Research Tools: Interviews & Questionnaires | ADJP Squad
(lled500.trubox.ca)
Signs and Symptoms of Cell Phone Addiction | PsychGuides
(psychguides.com)
Smartphone Addiction Statistics: All You Need To Know About Overuse of Cell Phones |
Sandra Henshaw
(tigermobiles.com)
Using Smartphones Increases Risk of Dry-Eye Disease, Claims New Study | Rachel Hosie
(independent.co.uk)
67 | P a g e
'Smartphone Slouching' More Serious Than It Sounds | Robert Preidt
(webmd.com)
Cell Phone Addiction: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes, Effects, and Treatment | The Wisdom
Post
(thewisdompost.com)
No, you're probably not 'addicted' to your smartphone – but you might use it too much | The
Conversation
(coach.nine.com.au)
Analysis: Teens are sleeping less. Why? Smartphones | Jean Twenge
(pbs.org)
It's True: Research Proves You Really Do Lose Track of Time When Surfing the Web | Duncan
Geere
(techradar.com)
68 | P a g e

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Research Reference 3

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PALM CREST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

November 14, 2019

Ms. ELVIRA IVY T. MANUEL

Academic School Principal

Palm Crest International School

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Dear Ms. Manuel,

junior high school students of Palm Crest International School.

I have located books, magazine articles, including many researches on Frontiers in

sources I have discovered in my initial research:

[Internet Addiction, Smartphone Addiction, and Hikikomori Trait in Japanese Young

seriousness of internet addictions and hikikomori.”

[Impact of mobile phone addiction on adolescent’s life: A literature review by Vandana

[Relationships Among Smartphone Addiction, Stress, Academic Performance, and

information system. The survey questionnaire collected demographic information and

withdrawal and deterioration in well-being, decreased academic performance, and decreased

(DSM-5) addressed this behavior when it introduced a non-substance addiction (Internet

gaming disorder) as a psychiatric diagnosis.

For my primary source, I discovered a review article written by a group of psychiatrists

worthy of the subject requirement.

Jersh Mikaela S. Dalida

while writing her thesis.

continue with her studies.

and effort did not go in vain.

the process of writing her research.

during her meltdowns and breakdowns.

thin throughout the school year.

from these respondents.

critic the thesis paper for its improvement and betterment.

always be the Glory!

In the light of various studies about behavioral addictions, the problem

of smartphone addiction arose. Smartphone addiction, according to Dr. Greenfield, is the

effects of problematic smartphone use or smartphone addiction.

physical and psychological state.

TITLE PAGE ……………………………………………………………………………….. i

APPROVAL SHEETS ………………………………………………………………………ii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ……………………………………………………………… vii

Background of the Study …………………………………………………………………….. 3

Statement of the Problem ……………………………………………………………………. 6

Significance of the Study ……………………………………………………………………. 7

Scope and Delimitation ……………………………………………………………………… 8

CHAPTER II. REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Differences between Cellphone and Smartphone …………………………………………… 9

Prevalence of Smartphone Addiction ……………………………………………………….. 9

Causes of Smartphone Addiction …………………………………………………………... 11

Symptoms of Smartphone Addiction ………………………………………………………. 12

CHAPTER III. METHODOLOGY

Research Methodology ……………………………………………………………………... 15

Research Instruments ………………………………………………………………………. 16

Research Locale ……………………………………………………………………………. 17

CHAPTER IV. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

Data Interpretation: Profile Variables …………………………………………………….... 20

Data Interpretation: Questionnaire (Yes or No) ……………………………………………. 23

Data Interpretation: Questionnaire (Physical and Psychological Effects) …………………. 41

Data Interpretation: Interview ……………………………………………………………… 45

CHAPTER V. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

CHAPTER VI. QUESTIONNAIRE AND INTERVIEW SHEETS

Student’s Profile ……………………………………………………………………………. 57

CHAPTER VII. BIBLIOGRAPHY AND DEFINITION OF TERMS

Definition of Terms ………………………………………………………………………… 61

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The recent development and enhancement of different functions of smartphone opened