September 13, 2004

By: Wendy Whittaker
Website: http://www.1st-in-cell-phones.com

Are Koreans addicted to cellular phone communication?

Cellular phone communication is a way of life in Korea, particularly among young people. Two new studies indicate that some young Koreans are becoming a little too attached to the their phones to the point that cellular phone communication has become an addiction.

The Seoul National University Bundang Hospital surveyed the communication habits of 340 high school students who use cellular phones. Two-thirds of those students had cell phones. The survey showed that when it comes to cell phones, 29 percent of the students demonstrated addictive symptoms bordering on paranoia.

Students have become so dependent on cell phones that 60 percent worry that they will miss an important message when their cell phone is turned off. Even though phones should beep when a new text message arrives, the Korean students said they still fear they will overlook a vital communication.

Parents express concern about children who constantly use cell phones to communicate through text messaging. One 14-year-old said she was so used to text messaging that her fingers move even when she isn’t holding her phone. Even though her fingers often hurt, she sends more than 20 text messages a day. A second survey that included college students showed that excessive cell phone use caused conflict between 60 percent of the students and their parents.

One of the most disturbing findings of the surveys was the paranoia young people feel when they don’t have access to instant cell phones communication. Students reported feeling uneasy and lost when they forget to carry their cell phones. Even when they do have their phones with them, students report they check it ever few minutes to make sure it’s working.

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About The Author:

Wendy Whittaker is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-cell-phones.com.  A cellular phone industry resource featuring articles, comparisons and reviews of cellular phone and service plans.