Smartphone Addiction among University Undergraduates: A Literature Review

Abstract

Purpose: This paper reviews the growing literature on Smartphone addiction among university undergraduates to identify trends. Design/Methodological Approach: It is based on literature published during the period 1996-2013. Only original research papers have been included in this literature review. The thematic structure has been adopted. In the beginning, such concepts as the symptoms and levels of this addiction will be clarified. Afterwards, the underlying problems and methodological issues raised in the literature will be touched upon. The paper also reviews the relationship between Smartphone addiction among undergraduates and their academic achievement. Finally, significant differences in addiction among undergraduates according to their gender, field of study, parents educational level and family income level will be examined. Findings: While some studies have shown gender differences in Smartphone addictive use, others have proved that gender and Smartphone use are not significantly related. A few studies have examined the relationship between addiction and students' field of study. Some of these have found that humanities students have a higher addiction level than physical science students. So far, little is known about the extent of the relationship between socio-economic factors (such as parental education and family income), mobile phone use behavior and addiction among university students. The results regarding Smartphone usage and family income had showed contrary indications. Nor is there agreement about the results regarding Smartphone use and parental education. Practical Implications: This state-of-art is useful for researchers and practitioners for understanding current trends and problems and methodological issues. Originality/Value: This paper identifies trends and problems and methodological issues. Conclusion: A mixed-approach investigation consisting of both quantitative and qualitative method is recommended to provide a comprehensive understanding of addiction and its impact on students' academic achievement.