Smartphone addiction is increasing across the world: A meta-analysis of 24 countries

Smartphone ownership and screen time are increasing across the world, but there have been few attempts to quantify smartphone addiction on a global scale. We conducted meta-analysis of studies published between 2014 2020 that used Addiction Scale, most common measure problematic use. focused adolescents young adults (aged 15 35) since they tend highest rates. Across 24 countries, 83 samples, 33,831 participants, we demonstrate use is world. China, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia had scores while Germany France lowest. suggest clinical interpretation these should be updated given current trends.