Research indicates that smartphone addiction can increase feelings of loneliness and isolation, while also worsening anxiety and depression symptoms. A study from San Francisco State University likens smartphone addiction to opioid dependency, arguing that overuse of a mobile device is no different from substance abuse. This overuse can lead to a decrease in social interactions and a decline in cognitive functions, especially among older adults.
For instance, individuals with social anxiety tend to avoid initiating social interactions and rarely receive social acceptance from others, which can be reflected in their smartphone usage patterns. Additionally, loneliness is tightly associated with fewer incoming calls, and lonely individuals tend to use health care apps more frequently. These findings suggest that excessive smartphone use can contribute to social isolation and loneliness, impacting mental health and social connections.
Digital identity can have both positive and negative impacts on social isolation. On the one hand, digital identity can provide a sense of connection and community for individuals who may be geographically isolated or have difficulty forming social connections in person. Social media platforms, for example, can provide a space for individuals to connect with others who share similar interests and experiences, potentially reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
On the other hand, digital identity can also perpetuate social isolation if individuals substitute online relationships for in-person interactions.
A 2017 study found that individuals with higher social media usage were more than three times as likely to feel socially isolated compared to those who used social media less frequently. Additionally, the curation of online profiles can create unrealistic expectations and promote consumerism, further exacerbating feelings of loneliness and disconnection