Study Reveals Young Women Experience Elevated Social Anxiety Linked to Smartphone Usage

Recent findings presented at the European Psychiatric Association Congress 2025 indicate significant gender differences in the effects of excessive smartphone use, particularly among young women. This research highlights that young females are more prone to social anxiety compared to their male counterparts and individuals of other genders.

The study aimed to explore the relationship between problematic smartphone use, mental well-being, emotional regulation, and social anxiety across different genders. Involving a sample of 400 young adults with an average age of 25.9 years, the research included 104 men, 293 women, and three participants identifying as another gender.

• Gender significantly influences various mediating factors such as daily smartphone usage time, mental health assessments, emotional regulation metrics, and fear of negative judgment.
• Young women exhibit a heightened fear of negative perceptions when engaging online.
• Smartphone usage duration is notably higher in young females compared to other genders.

The lead investigator, a researcher from George Emil Palade University of Medicine in Romania, pointed out that these findings underscore critical gender disparities regarding mental health issues associated with smartphone use. The research suggests the need for deeper investigations into how social interactions, emotional comprehension, and perceived social support may be impacted by excessive smartphone usage. Understanding these behavioral differences is essential for developing effective support strategies.

A co-author from Eotvos Lorand University in Hungary emphasized the necessity of acknowledging the unique challenges faced by young females in relation to smartphone dependence. The study builds upon previous research indicating that women often experience greater distress and therefore require additional support and guidance to recognize and address problematic smartphone use.

The President of the European Psychiatric Association expressed concern over the pervasive smartphone ownership among Generation Z, noting that nearly all individuals in this age group utilize smartphones. Existing literature suggests that smartphone and social media engagement are contributing factors to rising levels of mental distress, self-harm, and suicidal tendencies among young people. This area warrants further examination to identify and mitigate harmful impacts effectively.

For further details on the study, refer to the article titled 'Gender differences regarding problematic smartphone use, mediating by mental well-being, emotional regulation, and social anxiety in young adult sample [EPA2025-LB-4869]'.