Evaluation of obsessive-compulsive symptoms in relation to smartphone use.

INTRODUCTION

The use of smartphones throughout the United States continues to rise. Although smartphones have increased our capacity to access information, there is concern if excessive use may impact mental health. The purpose of this study was to examine whether a relationship exists between smartphone use and the presence of obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCS) or behaviors.

METHODS

A 33-item online survey was developed with 19 items relating to , 5th edition (DSM-5) criteria for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). A survey response was considered for possible OCS if participants answered at least 3 questions as or for the OCD-related questions structured around the DSM-5 criteria for OCD while also using their smartphone for greater than 2 or more hours per day.

RESULTS

A total of 308 of 550 subjects identified spending 2 or more hours on their smartphone per day and also answered positively on 3 or more questions designed to identify OCS. A statistically significant difference was discovered between those who used their smartphone for 2 or more hours per day and those who met 3 or more positive criteria for OCS compared to those who used their smartphone less than 2 hours per day ( < .00001).

DISCUSSION

The results of this study demonstrate a possible relationship between smartphone use and OCS. Additional research needs to be conducted to further investigate these results to determine their significance in clinical practice.