Gökcen AKYÜREK, Hatice TOPALOĞLU, Medine Nur ÖZATA DEĞERLİ
Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences - 2026;16(1):1-10
Objective: This cross-sectional study aimed to compare adolescents' social skills and quality of life based on their levels of nomophobia. Methods: A total of 128 adolescents participated in the study. Data were collected using a demographic information form, the Nomophobia Questionnaire, the Social Skills Assessment Scale, and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, with input from both adolescents and their parents. Results: The results showed that 82% of the adolescents experienced nomophobia. Adolescents without nomophobia scored significantly higher in initiating and sustaining relationships, interacting with groups, executing assignments, and total social skills compared to those with mild or moderate nomophobia (p<0.05). There was no difference in assertiveness, emotions, coping with impulsivity and aggressive behavior, problem-solving, and plan-making skills (p>0.05). Adolescents without nomophobia had higher scores in physical and social functioning aspects of quality of life compared to those with moderate nomophobia (p<0.05). Regression analysis indicated that daily phone use duration was positively associated with nomophobia (p<0.001), while social skills were negatively associated (p<0.05). Conclusion: These findings may guide interventions to improve adolescents' social skills and quality of life in managing nomophobia, suggesting the need for strategies that focus on enhancing interpersonal engagement and reducing smartphone dependency.
