QUIZ: HOW BAD’S YOUR PROBLEM?

tHe Smartphone Compulsion test was developed by addiction specialist dr david Greenfield. Just circle the questions that apply to you. 1. When you add up the time you spend on your phone, is it more than you thought? 2. Do you regularly find yourself mindlessly passing time by staring at your phone? 3. Do you lose track of time when on your phone? 4. Do you spend more time texting or emailing than talking to people in person? 5. Has the time you spend on your phone increased? 6. Do you wish you could be less involved with it?

7. Do you sleep with your phone under your pillow or next to your bed regularly?

8. Do you find yourself viewing texts, tweets, and emails at all hours — even if it means interrupting other things?

9. Do you text, email, tweet, or internet surf while driving or doing other activities that require focused attention?

10. Do you feel your use of your phone decreases your productivity at times?

11. Do you feel reluctant to be without it for a short time?

12. Do you feel uncomfortable if you leave your phone somewhere or it breaks?

13. At meals, is your phone always on the table?

14. When your phone rings or buzzes, do you feel an intense urge to check it?

15. Do you find yourself checking your phone many times a day, even if there is unlikely to be anything new or important? NOW COUNT UP HOW MANY YOU HAVE CIRCLED... 1–2: Normal. 3–4: Your behaviour is leaning toward problematic use. 5 or above: It is likely that you may have a problematic smartphone use pattern. 8 or more: Consider seeing a psychiatrist or psychotherapist who specialises in behavioural addictions for a consultation.