Problematic Smartphone Use Among Working Adults in Singapore: A Cross-Sectional Study

OBJECTIVE: While smartphones benefit the working population, concerns over problematic smartphone use (PSU) have grown. This study investigated the relationship between PSU and perceived work productivity, sleep, and well-being. METHODS: Working adults (n=303) were drawn from a survey for secondary analysis. Measures included the Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment questionnaire. Descriptive and covariate-adjusted analyses, including analysis of indirect associations were conducted. RESULTS: PSU prevalence was 33.0%. Individuals with PSU were younger and reported poorer sleep and more depressive and anxiety symptoms (p<0.05). PSU was associated with absenteeism, presenteeism, and activity impairment (p<0.001). Depressive and anxiety symptoms showed small indirect association effects. CONCLUSIONS: PSU affects many working adults and is linked to poorer well-being and perceived productivity loss, highlighting the need for workplace digital well-being initiatives.