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Have you ever wondered what your life would be like without a smartphone? Some may envision a life of peace without distraction, whereas some may see a life with less convenience and connection.

Others, however, may feel terrified of the idea entirely. Psychological research has uncovered a new fear: “nomophobia”—where individuals become filled with dread, anxiety and panic at the thought of being without their smartphone.

To measure the severity of this phobia and its impact on daily life, researchers have developed a test designed to assess and diagnose nomophobia. This tool not only sheds light on the prevalence of this modern anxiety, but also prompts a broader discussion about our dependence on technology and its implications for mental well-being.

What Is “Nomophobia?”

Contracting the phrase “no mobile phone phobia,” research defines nomophobia as the fear of being detached from smartphone connectivity. While it is not yet considered a legitimate mental disorder like other specific phobias—such as fears of animals, storms, heights, etc.—nomophobia’s conceptualization is founded on definitions from the Diagnostic Manual of Mental Disorders.