Anyone with an iPhone knows that this device can gain a significant importance in your life, but a new study shows that being separated from the device can cause psychological problems that may include poor cognitive performance. University of Missouri researchers have published study results that prove the detrimental health effects that being away from an iPhone can have for regular users. In fact the researchers state that it is possible that iPhone users start to see the device as an extension of themselves, and that when separated from the device users can fall into a negative psychological state as a result of the separation. 40 study participants were followed, and these individuals were asked to perform certain tasks including the completion of a puzzle. The task was attempted when the user had their iPhone nearby, and again when they were without the device.
The lead study author, MU Doctoral candidate Russel Clayton, worked with researchers from the University of Oklahoma and the Indiana University-Bloomington. The study team reported that psychological problems and poor cognitive performance were seen, stating “The researchers found a significant increase in anxiety, heart rate and blood pressure levels, and a significant decrease in puzzle performance when the participants were separated from their iPhones as compared to when iPhone users completed similar word search puzzles while in possession of their iPhones.” The study findings show that we are easily addicted to new technology, and over time we begin to depend on it in order to focus on daily responsibilities and activities and this can be detrimental.