The Effect of Self-control Depletion on the Smartphone Usage Need of Smartphone Addicts

This study investigated smartphone craving in individuals prone to addiction under depleted self-control conditions. Participants (N=352) were categorized into a high-risk addiction group (30 individuals) and a general usage group (30 individuals) using the Adult Smartphone Addiction Scale. They were subjected to self-control depletion (deleting the letter 'e' for 5 minutes) or a control condition. Wireless devices were then provided, and smartphone craving was assessed using a go/no-go task measuring reaction time and accuracy. Results revealed higher accuracy and faster reaction times for smartphone-related pictures in the high-risk group under self-control depletion compared to the control condition. In essence, when high-risk individuals depleted self-control, they exhibited heightened craving, indicating increased smartphone usage desire. The study underscores the importance of enhancing self-regulation in smartphone addicts, especially when self-control resources are depleted or executive functions are compromised in stressful conditions.