Exploring the impact of smartphone addiction on physical health and academic performance among university undergraduate students in the Western Cape

Abstract

Smartphone addiction has become an escalating concern, particularly among university students who are heavily reliant on their devices for academic, social, and entertainment purposes. This study explores the impact of smartphone addiction on the physical health and academic performance of undergraduate students in the Western Cape, South Africa. A qualitative approach using secondary data was employed, focusing on thematic analysis to uncover how addiction manifests, the related health issues, and the resulting academic challenges. The study identified three key themes: the manifestation of smartphone addiction, its physical health impacts, and its effects on academic performance. Smartphone addiction manifests in constant use and distraction, with students reporting frequent use during inappropriate times such as lectures. Apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok were identified as major contributors to compulsive behaviours, fulfilling social and entertainment needs, as explained by Uses and Gratification Theory. Physical health impacts included eye strain, sleep disturbances, and other physical symptoms such as headaches and neck pain. The Media Systems Dependency Theory suggests that overreliance on smartphones contributes to these physical ailments, with students experiencing deteriorating visual health and disrupted circadian rhythms. A lack of focus and productivity hindered their academic performance. The academic consequences were particularly severe, with participants reporting difficulty concentrating during lectures and study sessions due to constant notifications and distractions. Several students experienced declining grades and missed deadlines. Checking Habit Theory explains how habitual phone checking during academic activities can lead to cognitive fatigue and procrastination, thereby exacerbating academic struggles.