Nomophobia in School-Aged Children: An Emerging Challenge for Education and Mental Health

Abstract

Nomophobia, defined as the irrational fear of or anxiety about being without a mobile phone, significantly impacts mental health and behavior. The objective of this study was to identify profiles of problematic mobile phone use and their emotional implications in educational contexts, within the framework of the project "Monitoring Quality Education (SDG 4) in Ecuador: Digital Divide, Attitudes, Digital Competence, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Use Among Teachers and Students Post-Pandemic." A quantitative study was conducted with a sample of 2,800 students and 600 teachers from 24 educational institutions in Educational Zone 6. Nomophobia was found to be a prevalent phenomenon in the studied population, with negative consequences for academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being. In conclusion, researching this issue is essential for designing educational strategies that help mitigate nomophobia and promote a healthier relationship with technology.