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Mobile technology habits: patterns of association among device usage, intertemporal preference, impulse control, and
Henry H Wilmer1, Jason M Chein2
1Department of Psychology, Temple University, 1701 N. 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA.
Psychonomic Bulletin & Review
|March 17, 2016
Summary
Heavy mobile device use is linked to weaker impulse control and a reduced ability to delay gratification. This suggests potential negative impacts of portable electronic devices on cognitive functions related to reward processing.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Mobile electronic devices are ubiquitous in daily life.
- Limited empirical research exists on the cognitive and affective correlates of mobile technology habits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between mobile technology usage and individual differences in cognition and affect.
- To explore how mobile habits influence delay of gratification and impulse control.
Main Methods:
- Correlational analysis of mobile device investment.
- Assessment of delay discounting and impulse control (behavioral and self-report).
- Mediation analysis to examine the role of impulse control.
Main Results:
- Heavier mobile device use correlated with weaker delay of gratification.
- Increased mobile usage was associated with greater impulsivity (weaker impulse control).
- No significant relationship was found between mobile use and reward sensitivity.
Conclusions:
- Individual differences in impulse control mediate the link between mobile technology use and delay of gratification.
- Findings suggest potential negative impacts of increased portable electronic device use on impulse control and reward valuation.
- Further research is needed to establish causality and explore interventions.
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