Nomophobia among medical students before and after COVID-19 – A propensity score-matched study

Abstract

Introduction: NOMObile PHone PhOBIA (NOMOPHOBIA) is a psychological condition where people fear of being detached from mobile phone connectivity or use. Mobile phones became the main source of entertainment and academics during the lockdown enforced to contain COVID-19. The present study aims to find the change in the prevalence, severity, and characteristics of nomophobia among medical students. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among medical students during September 2019 and after the second wave of COVID-19 in September 2021, using Google Forms. The form included sociodemographic data, clinical details, characteristics of mobile phone usage, and the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q). The two groups (2019 and 2021) were matched using propensity score matching (PSM) analysis. Results: There were significant differences between the groups in terms of age, time spent and purpose of mobile phone usage, and frequently used mobile applications. Among the 2019 and 2021 groups, 99.50% and 99.54% had nomophobia, respectively. No significant differences were found between the groups in terms of severity, and dimensions of NMP-Q, except the dimension of “losing connectedness.” After PSM, similar results of nil significant differences, except the increase in severity of the dimension of “losing connectedness” in the 2021 group were found. Conclusion: The COVID-19 infection and lockdown, which happened during the era of technological advancement, have not changed the characteristics of nomophobia among medical students. However, post-COVID-19, there is a significant increase in the feelings of losing ubiquitous connectivity provided by mobile phones. If you find yourself always alert for phone notifications or reaching out to get your phone at frequent intervals, it’s time for a digital detox.