THE SMARTPHONE PROBLEMS OF GEN Z
People born between 1997 and 2012, known as Generation Z or Gen Z, are the first generation to grow up in a world where the internet and digital devices are an essential part of everyday life. According to a recent global survey, over 90% of these young people own smartphones. Studies have shown that almost half of them suffer from what has become known as "smartphone addiction": They insist on keeping their phones switched on all day long, and become very anxious when separated from them even for a few minutes.(lines 1–6)
Psychologists who study smartphone addiction are deeply concerned about its impact on the lives of young people. The phenomenon seems to be responsible for various problems that users suffer from, including difficulty sleeping. Furthermore, studies have found that many of those addicted to smartphones constantly shop online, buying things they don’t need. Psychologists call this "compulsive buying behavior," or CBB for short.(lines 7–11)
CBB has long been identified as a serious psychological problem. However, the number of people affected has increased dramatically since the arrival of the internet. "That's not really surprising," says Anita Crane, a professor of psychology at Elton College. "Obviously, shopping online is much easier than going to a store. An endless variety of products is available 24 hours a day at the click of a button. And for compulsive shoppers, there is the added benefit that they can shop in secret. This saves them from the embarrassment of being seen by anyone who might criticize them for wasting their money."(lines 12–18)
A link between CBB and smartphone use was identified in a study done at the University of Udine, in Italy. The researchers sent questionnaires to 300 students aged 18 to 24 and analyzed the responses. According to their findings, people who are compulsive buyers have much in common: Following a purchase, they all experience an immediate feeling of happiness. However, that feeling quickly disappears, and can only be regained by making another purchase. Locked in this cycle, compulsive buyers become unaware of how much time they have spent shopping. They also seem to be unable to consider the financial implications of their behavior.(lines 19–25)
In their study, the Italian researchers make several recommendations to combat CBB. A first step, they suggest, is to reduce excessive smartphone use. To achieve that goal, schools and universities need to introduce educational programs explaining the risks of such behavior. In addition, the researchers stress the importance of a proper financial education. This would help young people plan their spending more carefully when shopping with their smartphones.(lines 26–30)
Another recommendation concerns the role of online businesses. Companies, say the researchers, could use the data they collect to identify compulsive shoppers. These shoppers could then be prevented from buying repeatedly within a certain period of time. Ultimately such a policy might lead to an increase in company profits, as many customers would appreciate this sign of social responsibility. "The study recommendations are excellent," says Prof. Crane. "However, we will see a change in Gen Z behavior only if all of them are implemented."(lines 31–36)