Mindfulness-based interventions for Rumination, Anxiety & Problematic Smartphone use among College Students

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of smartphone use among young adults has raised concerns about its potential impact on mental health, making it crucial to understand the underlying psychological factors that contribute to problematic smartphone use (PSU). This study investigates the interrelationships between rumination, social anxiety, and PSU among young adults aged 18-25. Utilizing a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 183 participants using validated scales: the Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS), Rumination Response Scale (RRS), and Social Interaction Anxiety Scale (SIAS). The results revealed significant positive correlations between all three variables, indicating that higher levels of rumination and social anxiety are associated with increased PSU. The correlations between PSU and rumination (r = 0.486, p < 0.01), PSU and social anxiety (r = 0.436, p < 0.01), and rumination and social anxiety (r = 0.444, p < 0.01) suggest a cyclical relationship where each factor exacerbates the others. The study also explored the potential effectiveness of a mindfulness-based intervention in reducing these interconnected issues. The findings suggest that mindfulness techniques could be an effective tool in addressing the psychological factors contributing to PSU and its associated mental health challenges. In conclusion, this study provides insights into the complex relationships between rumination, social anxiety, and PSU, highlighting the potential of mindfulness-based interventions in mitigating these challenges.