The fast-paced changes in digital media pose a challenge for researchers studying digital addiction, as popular platforms today might become obsolete soon.
Researchers at Binghamton University have developed a tool to measure digital media addiction, ensuring its relevance despite technological shifts.
Let's see how useful it can be.
The Digital Media Overuse Scale focuses on psychology rather than specific technologies, allowing flexibility for clinicians and researchers.
For example, questions like 'I have trouble stopping myself from using X even when I know I should' can be adapted for different tech domains.
In testing dMOS, a survey with over 1,000 college students showed that most students exhibited few signs of addiction.
However, some demonstrated concerning attitudes and behaviors, particularly regarding social media use.
The Digital Media Overuse Scale proves to be a reliable, valid, and adaptable instrument for assessing digital media addiction across various domains.
Recently, we talked about slowing down dementia.