A nation gripped by ‘nomophobia’

A study, conducted by a team of international researchers, surveyed 754 undergraduate medical students, predominantly aged between 18 and 29, in a country grappling with political turmoil and severe restrictions on women’s education.

The findings, appearing in Heliyon, uncover a troubling trend: men experience moderate to severe nomophobia (93%) slightly more than women (88%), challenging previous studies that suggested differing vulnerabilities based on gender.

Dr. Suleman Lazarus, lead author of the study and cybercrime expert at the University of Surrey, said, “The overwhelming prevalence of nomophobia among Afghan students is not just a personal issue for the individuals; it is a reflection of the socio-political crisis in Afghanistan. In a nation where communication and connection are increasingly restricted, the smartphone becomes a lifeline, leading to heightened dependence and anxiety when separated from it.”

The study also highlights the impact of marital status on nomophobia levels, with married individuals showing higher mean scores compared to their single counterparts. This unexpected finding suggests that the dynamics of personal relationships and societal expectations in Afghanistan play a significant role in shaping individuals’ experiences of anxiety related to smartphone use.

To conduct this research, the team used the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q), a well-established tool designed to measure the severity of nomophobic symptoms. The data collection took place between October and December 2022, by sampling responses of students at Kabul University of Medical Sciences.

Participants completed a 27-item questionnaire that assessed their feelings and behaviors regarding smartphone usage, which was translated into Dari, the local language, to ensure accessibility and comprehension.

The key findings were:

• 54% of participants reported moderate nomophobia

• 35% exhibited severe symptoms

• 93% of men and 88% of women are nomophobic

• Gender, age, and marriage are critical factors influencing the intensity of nomophobia.

The implications of these findings are profound, particularly in light of the Taliban’s policies that have restricted women’s rights to education and freedom. These conditions have intensified the reliance on smartphones, making them not just gadgets but essential tools for survival and connection.

The research presents a unique lens through which to view the intersection of technology, mental health, and socio-political context in Afghanistan. With a mere 18.4% of the population actually having access to the internet, combined with a stark gender divide in access to technology itself, understanding nomophobia in this landscape is crucial for addressing mental health and societal well-being.

Dr. Lazarus continued, “This study is a crucial step toward understanding the mental health implications of our technology-dependent society, particularly in regions where access to education and basic rights is severely restricted. The data we have gathered paints a vivid picture of the psychological landscape of Afghanistan today.”