Nomophobia in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Students and Associations with Psychological Well-Being and Academic Performance: A Cross-Sectional Research

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and level of nomophobia among physiotherapy and rehabilitation (PTR) students. In addition, the nomophobia levels were compared according to their individual and academic characteristics. The associations between nomophobia levels and their psychological well-being and academic performance were investigated. Material and Methods: A total of 457 PTR students were included in the study. The structured survey form created using Google Forms was sent to the students through messaging apps. Students' nomophobia levels were assessed with the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q). Their psychological well-being and academic performance levels were assessed with the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and cumulative grade point averages (CGPA). Results: The nomophobia prevalence among PTR students was 99.7%. The students' NMP-Q total score was 89.00 (72.00/105.00). Female students had higher total scores on the NMPQ (p<0.001). The total scores obtained by the students from the NMPQ were similar in terms of age, academic level, and CGPA (p=0.066, p=0.438, p=0.669, respectively). There was a weak positive correlation between the total and subscale scores of the NMP-Q and the depression, anxiety, and stress subscales of the DASS-21 (p<0.001). Conclusion: Nomophobia was common among PTR students and students exhibited moderate levels of nomophobia. Female students had higher levels of nomophobia and students' nomophobia levels were associated with their psychological well-being. Accordingly, raising awareness among PTR students about nomophobia and its potential negative impact on their mental health may be crucial. To this end, offering digital detox programs and counseling services is recommended.