Study shows that Apple iPhone withdrawals are real

Do Apple iPhone users really become addicted to their phone? Do they suffer physical withdrawals when they don't have their handset near them? The answer to both questions is "Yes" according to researchers at the University of Missouri. Based on the results of tests run by the school, the researchers say iPhone users deprived of their phone can suffer "serious psychological and physiological effects," including scoring poorly on cognitive tests.

To study the effect of iPhone withdrawal, the researchers had 40 subjects do two word search puzzles individually. The first one was done with the iPhone in the user's possession. Before the second puzzle, the researchers created a ruse which allowed them to take the iPhone away from the participant. Researchers then called the subject's iPhone and let it ring continuously. Blood pressure and heart rate readings were monitored during the first test, and while the phone was ringing during the second test. In addition, anxiety levels were also studied.

The researchers found that subjects' blood pressure, heart rate and anxiety rose, and their test scores decreased after the iPhone was removed from the participants. This led the researchers to state that iPhone users should not be without their handset during times when they need to focus "such as taking tests, sitting in conferences or meetings, or completing important work assignments, as it could result in poorer cognitive performance on those tasks." 


The study didn't conclude with the one question that many current iPhone users might be asking themselves. Will they have to go to iPhone rehab? Actually, more convenient than rehab is an app called Moment which we told you about last year. By using a pre-set timer, you can limit the amount of time you spend using your iPhone each day.  Once the pre-set time period is reached, an annoying buzzer goes off. You can use the app to wean yourself off the phone completely, or at least to take your daily usage down to an amount of time that you feel is more appropriate.

source: UniversityofMissouri via BusinessInsider