Smartphone Addiction, Inattentional Blindness, and Perceived Effects among University Students in Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract

Smartphones are ubiquitous and serve as primary tools for both academic research (accessing library resources) and social networking (WhatsApp, browsing). Their addiction is common among university students in Nigeria, with adverse effects on their academic performances and well-being. Several studies have been conducted on smartphone addiction, but a few have focused on inattentional blindness caused by smartphone addiction. This study was designed to investigate the prevalence of smartphone addiction and inattentional blindness, the factors associated with smartphone addiction, and the perceived effects of smartphone addiction among university students. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, and a multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 420 students from the University of Ibadan. A pretested, semi-structured questionnaire containing the Smartphone Addiction Scale was used to collect data. Data were analysed and pretested in descriptive and inferential statistics at p=0.05. Respondents' age was 24.3±5.0 years, 59.5% were females, and 90% were single. A majority (85.2%) agreed that they become engrossed in smartphone activities while walking, crossing the road, or eating, and 64.5% reported a time when they failed to notice something important happening around them while they were focused on their smartphone. The prevalence of smartphone addiction was 81.2%, and the prevalence of inattentional blindness was 81%. Most respondents (83.3%) agreed that social networks and smartphone functions make them feel attached to their smartphone (79.5%). Most (62.1%) reported wrist and neck pain from smartphone use. Findings revealed a high prevalence of smartphone addiction and inattentional blindness among university students, which could lead to an increase in the likelihood of accidents. Respondents have high perceived health effects towards smartphone addiction, but this did not influence their attitude towards smartphone use and pattern of smartphone usage. Health education interventions, such as sensitisation and enlightenment programmes, will help educate students about the dangers of inattentional blindness.