Everyday technology con- sumes everyone’s lives as the phone, computer, tablet and other high tech devices have become not just an object, but also a close companion. And for those who are extremely connected to their devices, go- ing without them, even for only a few minutes, can be an anxi- ety-filled experience.


A majority of American adults (56 percent) own smart- phones, according to a recent study by the Pew Research Center. Having the ability to check your mail, play games and browse the Internet right in your pocket is a leap for- ward for technology and stay- ing connected to the work- place, but it may come at a cost.


Nomophobia, or the pathologi- cal fear of remaining out of touch with technology, is a relatively modern affliction. It’s basically a side effect from changes the mobile phone has made to human habits, behaviors and even the way we perceive reality. Entire relationships are becoming defined through mobile texting and colorful little emoti- cons, from saying “I love you” to “I think we should move on.”


So how did it come to this? Have smart-phones become an exten-sion of Americans or is everyone simply becoming victims of a fast-paced, always connected society? Chances are it’s a little bit of both.


Dr. Chuck Howard, licensed psychologist and chair of the psychology programs at Argosy University, Denver, believes it can be more complex than simply stamping a label on the problem.


“Nomophobia is a result of people becoming more and more electronically con- nected to the point that their technology-based network and relationships become their home community,” says Howard. “Losing that connection is essentially a form of


14 Kalon Women Magazine Oct/Dec 2014


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