Relationship between Nomophobia and Socialization and locus of control : Direct and moderating Link

Abstract

The current study was designed to investigate the relationship between nomophobia, socialization & locus of control. In addition, moderating role of locus of control in link between nomophobia and socialization was also assessed. The sample comprised of 321 adults both male and female (109= males, 215= females) age range between 18-25 years (M= 21.49, SD= 1.71). In this correlational research design, the data was collected online through convenient sampling technique from students of different universities of Lahore. Nomophobia, Socialization and Locus of control were measured by administering Nomophobia Questionnaire (Yildrim & Correia 2016), Lubben Social Network Scale (Lubben 1988), and Locus of Control Scale (Ross & Broh 2000) respectively. Correlation analysis demonstrated that nomophobia is positively linked with socialization and locus of control. Regression analysis indicated that nomophobia (i.e. unable to communicate, unable to access information, giving up convenience) is the predictor of locus of control and socialization. Partially significant moderations were observed. The study concluded that it is very important to evolve the awareness about excessive social media usage either for entertainment purpose or for educational purpose. This study is a unique contribution for the society in a way, it will help people to understand that how people mostly spend their time during COVID-19 lockdown. It is mandatory to initiate an education and training to grow conscious awareness about the use of information technologies such as smartphone.