Technological advances have made modern life easier and substantially aided the accessibility of people to one another. In particular the cellular phone has developed a far-reaching network allowing people to gain contact constantly and the access is reaching many remote areas. It has been reported that approximately 91% of Americans own a cell phone and a growing proportion of cell phones owned are “smart phones” (Stothart, Mitchum & Yehnert, 2015). A preliminary evaluation of the situation would conclude that the prevalence of cell phones or smart phones as an advantage and improvement to society. However, a more detailed or comprehensive evaluation of the overwhelming popularity and usage of cell phones indicate an underlining problem associated with the possession of cell phones.
How often do you find yourself looking at your phone? Perhaps while waiting in line, walking to class or passing the time while riding in a vehicle. The amount of time being distracted or consumed by using the cell phone is staggering. However, the most condemning use of the cell phone is while driving and many studies have documented the distraction associated with the use of a cell phone while driving. I’m willing to bet you have not considered another distraction associated with the cell phone because I had not considered this aspect: waiting to respond to a call or text message can impact attention.
A study conducted by Stothart, Mitchum and Yehnert investigates the impact of notifications from a cell phone to prompt task-irrelevant thoughts or mind wandering (Stothart, Mitchum & Yehnert, 2015). The results of the study support the notion that when cell phone notifications are not viewed or responded to a significant decline in performance related to attention are experienced (Stothart, Mitchum & Yehnert, 2015). Interestingly, the findings indicate that the magnitude of performance decline is consistent with impaired attention associated with driving while using a cell phone (Stothart, Mitchum & Yehnert, 2015).
The implications of the study conducted by Stothart, Mitchum and Yehnert are noteworthy because the increasing prevalence and integration of cell phones into society appears to be on an ever-increasing trajectory. Obviously as the study implies not only is the direct interaction or usage of a cell phone a distraction to attention and performance but also the mere acknowledgment of the cell phone presence is enough to negatively effect attention and task performance.
It appears to me that the argument to unplug or detach yourself from the cell phone periodically is a wise decision, particularly if you are trying to focus and remain diligent on a task. These findings present an interesting discussion in respect to permitting access to personal cell phones during working hours or during school hours. Regardless, I have gained a better appreciation for silencing my cell phone and freeing myself from unnecessary distractions.
Stothart, C., Mitchum, A., & Yehnert, C. (2015). The Attentional Cost of Receiving a Cell Phone Notification. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Human Perception and Performance, 41(4), 893-897.