The study, led by Dr. Csibi Sandor of George Emil Palade University of Medicine in Romania, revealed that gender plays a crucial role in both the extent of smartphone use and its psychological impact
A groundbreaking study presented at the European Psychiatric Association Congress 2025 in Madrid has raised concerns about the impact of excessive smartphone use on young females, linking it to higher levels of social anxiety. The research, which analyzed gender differences in smartphone dependence and mental health outcomes, suggests that young females are particularly vulnerable to the psychological consequences of constant smartphone usage.
The study, led by Dr. Csibi Sandor of George Emil Palade University of Medicine in Romania, revealed that gender plays a crucial role in both the extent of smartphone use and its psychological impact. The findings showed that young females are more likely to experience increased social anxiety, often stemming from the fear of being negatively judged by others in online spaces. According to Dr. Sandor, “These results point to serious differences between genders, with females much more likely to suffer mental ill-health at the hands of a smartphone.”
The research team examined the behaviors of 400 young adults, with an average age of 25.9 years, including 293 women, 104 men, and three individuals of another gender. One of the key findings was the significant relationship between smartphone use and increased anxiety, particularly in relation to social interactions. Young females were found to spend more time on smartphones, which correlated with greater fears of judgment and exclusion, both in real life and on social media platforms.
The study also emphasized the role of social interactivity and emotional understanding, suggesting that excessive smartphone use could disrupt social dynamics and emotional well-being. Dr. Sandor explained that problematic smartphone use might lead to a decrease in perceived social support, further exacerbating feelings of isolation and anxiety among young women.
Co-author Neha Pirwani, a researcher at Eotvos Lorand University in Hungary, added that the study contributes to growing evidence suggesting that females are disproportionately affected by the mental health challenges associated with smartphones. “Our findings add to previous studies showing that females can face increased suffering and, therefore, need additional attention, guidance, and help compared to other genders, to identify problematic smartphone use and its potential consequences,” Pirwani said.
The issue of excessive smartphone use among young people, particularly Generation Z, has become a growing concern. According to Professor Geert Dom, President of the European Psychiatric Association, nearly 100% of Generation Z owns and uses a smartphone, which has raised alarm among mental health professionals. “There is already evidence from a variety of cross-sectional, longitudinal, and empirical studies implicating smartphone and social media use as factors in the increase of mental distress, self-injurious behavior, and suicidality among this age group,” Dom noted.
The study’s findings underscore the need for more research into the psychological effects of smartphone use, especially among vulnerable populations like young females. Dr. Sandor called for further investigations into the behavioral differences between genders and the development of targeted interventions to address the mental health challenges linked to smartphone addiction. “It is important that these areas are further researched so we can work to build our understanding of these behavioral differences and what methods need to be put in place to support these individuals,” he said.
The study also calls for a greater focus on mental health education and interventions aimed at reducing the negative impact of excessive smartphone use. The team believes that by identifying and addressing the specific challenges faced by young females, society can help mitigate the psychological toll of constant online connectivity.
As the study highlights, the rise in social anxiety and other mental health issues among young smartphone users is a trend that requires urgent attention. Researchers stress that future efforts should focus on finding effective solutions to support young people, particularly females, as they navigate the complex relationship between social media, smartphone use, and mental well-being.
The research is a timely reminder that while smartphones have become indispensable tools for communication and connection, their excessive use may come with unintended and damaging psychological consequences, particularly for young females.
