'Dumb phone’ a perfect way to restrict yourself from smartphone addiction? Know what it is

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The problem of smartphone addiction is on the rise, with a large number of people around the world finding themselves in the clutches of non-stop scrolling on various social media platforms. To solve this issue, several people, especially those in Europe and the US, have adopted the concept of a ‘dumb phone’.

A study conducted by the National Institute of Health in the US highlighted how an astonishing 74.3% of smartphone users felt some form of dependency on the use of their gadgets.

However, the use of ‘dumb phones’ is now seen as a way out of the increasing smartphone addiction in several cities, according to a report in Gizchina.

What are 'dumb phones'?

Unlike the major smartphones available in the market that are well known for their wide range of characteristics and features, a 'dumb phone' has limited functionality and often allows a user to only make calls, send messages or view maps.

The viral trend has been driven major over concerns about the negative impact of excessive smartphone use on the mental health of a person and social relationships. This trend is gaining wide attention, particularly among the youth.

As per the Gizchina, a 'dumb phone' is a gadget that lacks advanced features and apps, majorly focusing on basic communication and navigation functions.

It is famous, especially among those looking forward to limiting their screen time and avoiding social media.

However, it is to be noted that a 'dumb phone' is not the same as a feature phone. Nowadays, some feature phones available in the market also have advanced features and access to social media. The report notes that a phone will not be called 'dumb' if it has any type of access to social media.

Why opt for 'dumb phones'?

Studies have shown how excessive smartphone usage has been one of the leading causes of a range of mental health issues, including stress, depression and anxiety.

The pressure of staying connected and constant notifications can also lead to feelings of anxiety, especially among youngsters. The Fear Of Missing Out (FOMO), a term famous among social media users, further exacerbates these issues.

Earlier, a study by Harvard University spread the light on how the response area of the brain while using social media apps on phones is similar to the response to addictive substances, further highlighting the addictive nature of these platforms.

Also, the use of 'dumb phones' among children may be a desirable option as early exposure to smartphones can negatively impact their development and lead them to addiction.