Mobile Phone Addiction, Work- Study Conflict and Sleep Problems Among Young Adults

Abstract

The rapid expansion of smart phone usage has transformed communication, social interaction, and work habits, yet excessive reliance on mobile devices has given rise to behavioral concerns such as mobile phone addiction. This study examined the relationship between mobile phone addiction, work-study conflict, and sleep problems among young adults in Sialkot, Pakistan. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 299 participants through standardized measures: the Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version (SAS-SV), Work-Study Conflict Scale, and Sleep Quality Scale. Findings revealed significant positive correlations between mobile phone addiction and work-study conflict (r = .58, p < .001), as well as between mobile phone addiction and sleep problems (r = .53, p < .001). Work-study conflict was also positively associated with sleep disturbances (r = .43, p < .01). Mediation analysis showed that work-study conflict partially mediated the relationship between mobile phone addiction and sleep problems. Gender differences were also observed, with males reporting 1higher levels of mobile phone addiction, work-study conflict, and sleep issues compared to females. These findings highlight the detrimental implications of excessive mobile phone use on young adults’ academic, professional, and psychological well-being. Interventions promoting digital literacy, healthy device use, and improved sleep hygiene are necessary to mitigate the risks of mobile phone addiction.