Nomophobia and Self-esteem: The Influence of Digital Media on the Leisure Activities of Peruvian Adolescents

Background Nomophobia is a public health problem of the digital age. Objective We aimed to assess the self-esteem and prevalence of nomophobia among high school students, and identify the factors and risks associated with them. Materials and Methods The study was a quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional, and correlational study. A logistic regression model was used to assess the risk of nomophobia. The research was conducted in the northern area of the city of Lima, Peru, in 2023. High school students between the ages of 11 and 18 years participated. Nomophobia and self-esteem were assessed using the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q) and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, respectively. Results A total of 630 students with a median age of 15 years (Q1 = 14, Q3 = 16, IQR = 2) participated. Regarding nomophobia, 65.4% (n = 412) presented a risk of nomophobia, and 20.6% (n = 130) had nomophobia. Regarding the level of self-esteem, 24.9% (n = 157) had a low level, 52.4% (n = 330) had a medium level, and only 22.7% (n = 143) showed a high level of self-esteem. The variables associated with a higher frequency of nomophobia were medium socioeconomic level ( p = 0.043), navigating the internet and video games ( p = 0.010), and low self-esteem ( p = 0.009). Navigating the internet during leisure time had a significant association with an increased risk of nomophobia [Wald χ2= 6.093, p = 0.014, OR = 2.281 (95%CI: 1.185 to 4.390)]. Conclusion Nomophobia is a frequent problem among adolescents, and there is also a significant presence of low self-esteem. The consumption of digital media during leisure time, particularly navigating the internet, increases the risk of nomophobia among adolescents. Thus, the responsible use of digital media and activities that strengthen the self-esteem of adolescents must be promoted.