How Cell Phones Are Ruining Relationships – Smartphone Addiction

(Last Updated On: June 3, 2023)

Are you a mandroid – A new hybrid of human in relationship with your smartphone?

 

One of the biggest challenges relationships have today is communication and not spending enough time with one another. The lack of human interaction suggests that we may prefer to hang out with our devices. Though we have greatly enhanced our ability to communicate far and wide by merging ourselves with our devices, statistics show that some in particular, Generation Z, are the loneliest ever in history.

 

In this era of smart devices, everyone is networked to one another through apps , games, messenger/chats, email, social media etc. While we appreciate the convenience technology has brought in providing us with the latest news, and distractions, human beings are wired for interdependency and meaningful activity – which leads to meaningful relationships.

 

Smart Fact

Do you know that there is actually a smartphone addiction disease called nomophobia? That’s not a typo. Are you nomaphobic?

 

 

 

Keep the Smartphone Away from the Dinner Table

Some time ago, while at lunch with my family, I noticed that everyone was on their smartphones fidgeting, texting, browsing – pick one but we weren’t talking. Then it hit me that we needed to be socializing and appreciating those moments together, and not spending time on the phone with others. There is time for that. Sadly, these are the things that come back to haunt us when our loved ones are no longer with us. Trust me, let’s maximize every opportunity to cherish one another and live in every moment.

 

 

We must not allow ourselves to be influenced by technology to the extent that we become slaves to it. It is a tool and it should be used as such. People shouldn’t have to compete with devices for our attention.

  

Generally speaking, the relationships that matter most are those that are right before us. That’s our investment, our sphere of influence and encouragement. Why spend it with a device when we could be using that time to connect with the people right in front of us. Communication and giving someone your undivided attention is:

• the greatest expression of affection and respect in any type of relationship
• the hallmark of a healthy relationship
• having the right perspective on what is really important
• a display of maturity
• showing others that they are valuable

 

Is Your Smartphone Your Significant Other?

Show some respect! Wouldn’t you feel super awesome if everyone put away their phones to give you their undived attention when you’re together? I am sure that would make you feel more important and signal they are very interested in what you have to say. As a result, the conversation becomes more meaningful and productive as you reciprocate. Relations actualy get a great shot at growing here. Show someone undivided attention for a few minutes and you’ve got a friend for life. Don’t let your smartphone rob you of developing real friendships?

 

The Smartphone Addiction Quiz
Let’s see who is smarter!

Are you the master of your smart device?  Agree or disagree with the following 10 statements as honestly as possible.  Pass mark = 50%

1. My smart device must be within two feet of me at all times
2. I must examine a message the moment it comes through
3. I communicate with my family via WhatsApp – social media even though we are all at home
4. I feel the urge to check my device randomly and fairly often
5. I am like a fish out of the water if I forget it at home
6. I return home because I forgot it but I don’t need it for work
7. I bring it to the table when dining
8. I take it to the bathroom
9. I get the urge to check or respond to messages when I am driving
10. I am in church, at a wedding/funeral and I find myself texting

 

Grade yourself…How did you do?  No, you didn’t pass if you got more than 50% :-).   Actually, the higher the score, the worse you did.

 

Why Good Old Conversation Still Works

Good conversation beats texting every time. Dialogue is probably the number one way not to be misinterpreted, engage, and build lasting relationships. Yes, I mean actual face to face or, even telephone conversation. When we interact on that level, we have the opportunity to clearly articulate what we mean and not stand the risk of being misunderstood.

I have had several experiences where I have had to call someone to clarify something I texted that came over in the wrong way. Has that ever happened to you? Texting is not enough to fully express or clarify what you mean. The dynamics of spoken interaction wins every time. 

 

https://fb.watch/chkEXfZdIp/ 

 

Turn the Smartphone off & Spend Quality Time With Others

• Plan a time for telling jokes and take turns. Corny or funny, it doesn’t matter. This is great for emotional wellbeing as laughter releases stress and heals the body.
• Discuss your immediate goals with one other. Offer suggestions and encouragement.
• Choose a fun topic, such as, “the most embarrassing moment of my life”.

 

Board games
Set aside a time to play some board games where there is more personal interaction. This is a great way to boost a relationship. During this activity, experiences are created and cherished for life.

You express the real you with your frequent outburst of laughter, showing a fun side that might have been dormant for some time. As you play in this lighter atmosphere, the stress of broken relations and misunderstandings are forgotten and the process of healing and forgiveness begins to inadvertently take place. You will now be on the path to creating experiences and investing in memories that will last a lifetime. These will have a positive impact on your relationships going forward. Schedule a time that suits everyone and do it in a consistent manner. You will see instantaneous benefits.

 

How to Have Meaningful Relationships

You can change the future with this simple method.  Buy a board game! Remember, the magic is not in the board game (or whatever activity you choose to do without technology), but in the experiences created. Outsmart your smartphone today. Do it now!

See this article on cell phone addiction statistics
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Horns are growing on young people’s skulls. Phone use is to blame, research suggests.

 

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