A proposal for including nomophobia in the new DSM-V

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Digital Psychology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is the standard for psychiatric diagnoses.
• The DSM-V, released in May 2013, included revised criteria for anxiety disorders.
• Nomophobia, or the fear of being without a mobile phone, has emerged as a significant concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose the inclusion of nomophobia in the DSM-V.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of nomophobia's existing literature.
• To discuss the clinical relevance, epidemiology, psychometric assessment, and treatment of nomophobia.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on nomophobia.
• Analysis of nomophobia's characteristics in relation to DSM-V criteria.
• Discussion of the psychopathological effects of new media and technology.

Main Results:

• Nomophobia was not included in the DSM-V.
• There is increasing attention on the psychological impact of new media.
• The study emphasizes the need for careful consideration to avoid pathologizing normal behaviors.

Conclusions:

• Despite not being included in the DSM-V, nomophobia warrants further research and attention.
• The increasing prevalence of smartphone use necessitates understanding its psychological effects.
• Future research should focus on differentiating pathological behaviors from normal technology engagement.