A recent study presented at the European Psychiatric Association Congress in 2025 reveals a significant connection between excessive smartphone use and heightened anxiety levels, particularly among young women. The research underscores notable gender-based differences in problematic smartphone usage, with women displaying increased social anxiety and a greater fear of negative judgment on social media platforms.
The study, encompassing 400 young adults (293 women), investigated the relationships among problematic smartphone use, mental well-being, emotional regulation, and social anxiety. The findings suggest that women may be more vulnerable to psychological challenges stemming from smartphone use, potentially due to factors such as emotional understanding, virtual social interaction patterns, and perceived levels of social support.
These results indicate that women could benefit from targeted prevention and support strategies aimed at managing technology dependence. Experts are advocating for further research to deepen the understanding of the underlying causes and effects of this issue. Reducing reliance on digital tools may contribute to decreased anxiety and depression, fostering improved self-esteem and overall well-being.