Understanding Problematic Smartphone and Social Media Use Among Adults in France: Cross-Sectional Survey Study

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Behavioral Science
• Public Health

Background:

• The digital age is characterized by widespread smartphone adoption, with 55.88 million users in France in 2023.
• Increased screen time from digital devices, particularly smartphones, raises concerns about problematic use and associated risks among adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the prevalence of compulsive smartphone use in French adults.
• To identify patterns of problematic smartphone behaviors and their impact on daily activities, sleep, and safety.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional, nonprobability sample of 21,244 French adults was surveyed from May 3 to June 5, 2023.
• Anonymous digital questionnaires, including the Smartphone Compulsive Use Test, captured data on social media engagement, device ownership, and screen time.

Main Results:

• 66.7% of respondents exhibited compulsive smartphone use, with 36.7% showing signs of addiction.
• Younger adults (18-39) were more likely to exhibit addiction (OR 2.5).
• Problematic behaviors included unsafe driving (44.3%), pre-sleep use (43%), and bathroom use (36.1%). Sleep disturbances and risky behaviors correlated with higher compulsion scores.

Conclusions:

• Compulsive smartphone use is prevalent among French adults, significantly affecting daily life, sleep, and safety.
• Findings underscore the urgent need for public awareness, preventive measures, and therapeutic interventions for excessive smartphone use.