Discover Psychology (Mar 2025)

Nomophobia and associated sociodemographic factors among respiratory therapists in Saudi Arabia

  • Ahmed H. Alasimi,
  • Abdulelah M. Aldhahir,
  • Heba M. Bintalib,
  • Abdullah A. Alqarni,
  • Jaber S. Alqahtani,
  • Omar A. Alqarni,
  • Saeed M. Alghamdi,
  • Rayan A. Siraj,
  • Mohammed M. Alyami,
  • Munyra Alhotye,
  • Abdallah Y. Naser,
  • Mansour S. Majrshi,
  • Deema S. Ashoor,
  • Hassan Alwafi

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s44202-025-00331-w
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 5, no. 1
pp. 1 – 10

Abstract

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Abstract Background Nomophobia, the fear of being without a smartphone or disconnected from mobile networks, has become a growing concern in today’s digital era, impacting mental health and professional productivity. This study assesses the prevalence of nomophobia among respiratory therapy (RT) staff in Saudi Arabia and examines sociodemographic factors associated with moderate to severe levels of nomophobia, offering insights into digital dependency within this healthcare workforce. Methods A nonprobability cross-sectional survey, utilizing the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q), was distributed via social media platforms to respiratory therapists (RTs) in Saudi Arabia from October 17, 2022, to January 13, 2023. Data were presented in terms of frequency and percentage, and logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with moderate to severe nomophobia. Results Overall, 1,001 RTs completed the online survey. The prevalence of nomophobia among RT staff was 95% (95% CI 67–94), with a mean ± SD of 56 ± 20, indicating a mild level of nomophobia among the participants. Female RT staff were one time more likely to experience moderate to severe levels of nomophobia [OR: 1.4 (95% CI 1.06–1.85); p = 0.019]. RT staff with work experience ≥ 11 years were twice as likely to experience moderate to severe levels of nomophobia [OR: 2.07 (95% CI 1.28–3.34); p = 0.003]. Staff who reported active smoking status were almost twice as likely to experience moderate to severe levels of nomophobia [(OR): 1.79 (1.24–2.60); p = 0.045]. Finally, RT staff who worked in private hospitals were one time more likely to experience moderate to severe levels of nomophobia [(OR): 1.4 (1.01–1.95); p = 0.002]. Conclusions Nomophobia is prevalent among respiratory therapy staff in Saudi Arabia, with a majority experiencing moderate to severe levels. The identification of key sociodemographic risk factors associated with this condition underscores the need for targeted interventions and support strategies to improve both the well-being and productivity of the workforce.

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