Evolution of Problematic Mobile Phone Use in the Spanish Population over the Last Decade

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Public Health
• Digital Media Studies

Background:

• Problematic mobile phone use (PMPU) is a growing concern globally.
• Understanding trends and risk factors for PMPU is crucial for public health.
• Previous studies have indicated varying prevalence rates across different populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the prevalence and severity of problematic mobile phone use in Spain from 2014 to 2024.
• To identify demographic and behavioral factors associated with PMPU.
• To compare current trends with a 2014 baseline study.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional online surveys conducted in 2018 (n=1612) and 2024 (n=2001) in Spain.
• Utilized the Mobile Phone Problematic Use Scale (MPPUS) and Mobile Phone Addiction Craving Scale (MPACS).
• Data analyzed by gender, age, occupation, education, and population size, compared to a 2014 baseline (n=1126).

Main Results:

• Prevalence of PMPU slightly decreased from 5.1% (2014) to 3.2% (2024).
• Difficulties controlling phone use decreased from 20.5% (2014) to 18.8% (2024).
• Severity of problematic use, indicated by MPACS scores, increased among problematic users.
• Key factors associated with PMPU included daily hours of use, age (<35), anxiety, and videogaming.

Conclusions:

• Despite a slight decline in prevalence, problematic mobile phone use remains a significant public health issue in Spain.
• The increasing severity of problematic use warrants targeted preventive and therapeutic interventions.
• Young adults are particularly vulnerable, highlighting the need for early intervention strategies.