According to study: This cell phone habit makes you stupid

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We use our cell phones 84 times daily, about every twelve minutes! Many people now suffer from a veritable smartphone addiction. However, studies are only gradually revealing how much the device influences our thinking. A recent study by the University of Texas shows that even the mere proximity of a smartphone reduces our cognitive abilities – and does so unconsciously.

Cell phones rob us of focus – even when they are switched off
In the study, 800 test subjects were subjected to various concentration tests. They were asked to place their smartphones on the table with the display facing down, put them in their pockets or leave them in an adjoining room. In all cases, the devices were silent and without vibrating notifications.

According to the study: This cell phone habit makes you stupid
The result? The participants with smartphones on the table performed worst in the tests. Those whose smartphones were in their pockets performed better. The test subjects with cell phones in another room showed the highest concentration and thinking performance.

Why the smartphone sabotages our brain
These findings prove that our brain unconsciously focuses on our smartphone even when not using it. The ability to check messages or open an app at any time remains in our minds. As a result, part of our mental capacity is always in the shadow of the cell phone, which reduces our concentration. Even when the device is switched off, its proximity alone makes us less efficient.

Scientists therefore recommend deliberately putting the smartphone out of reach when concentration is required. Putting the phone down in another room is particularly effective, as this reduces the urge to pick it up. Deactivating notifications or switching off the internet connection can also help interrupt the device’s constant mental pull.

How to protect yourself from the “smartphone effect”
If you want to concentrate better, you should schedule fixed smartphone use times. Regular cell phone breaks take the pressure off your mind and help you to focus more on the real world again. Social encounters also benefit from not always having your cell phone to hand. If you meet with friends or family, you should consciously take your smartphone out of sight to have real conversations without distractions.