Gender Differences in the Use of Smartphones: A Quantitative Study among Mexican University Students

Abstract

Smartphones have become a ubiquitous element of modern life, especially among the young. This study characterizes and differentiates the use of smartphones among university students according to their gender. A total of 1,089 students from a Mexican public university participated. A questionnaire was administered that assessed the history of smartphone use, current use in various situations, and indicators of excessive use. Mann-Whitney and Chi-square tests were performed and the Bayes factor was calculated. Results showed that women spend more time using their phones for messaging and social networking. Women also experience more visual problems and musculoskeletal discomfort associated with excessive phone use. Conversely, men more frequently use their phones in the bathroom and while driving. The results suggest the need for interventions and awareness campaigns to promote healthy smartphone habits.