People who constantly check their phone for no reason usually display these 9 traits, according to psychology

We all know someone who’s constantly checking their phone – sometimes, it even seems like they’re doing it for no reason at all. But what if I told you, there’s a psychological explanation behind this behavior?

Psychology tells us that certain traits often go hand in hand with this compulsive phone-checking habit. And I’m not just talking about being tech-savvy or being a social media addict.

In this article, we will explore these 9 fascinating traits, providing you with a deeper understanding of why some people are constantly glued to their screens. 

Let’s get started. 

1) Anxiety driven

We’ve all experienced that uneasy feeling when we can’t locate our phone. But for some, this anxiety runs deeper.

Psychologists suggest that the constant need to check a phone for no apparent reason may be an indicator of underlying anxiety. This behavior acts as a coping mechanism, providing a temporary distraction from anxious thoughts or feelings.

In fact, a study found that excessive smartphone use has a small but significant positive correlation with social anxiety. 

If you notice someone constantly checking their phone, it might not just be a bad habit. It could be their way of dealing with anxiety. Understanding this can help us approach such individuals with more empathy and patience.

2) Fear of missing out (FOMO)

This one hits close to home. I remember a time when I was constantly refreshing my social media feeds, even when there was nothing new to see. I later realized it was the fear of missing out, or FOMO, that was driving me.

FOMO is a real psychological phenomenon, and it’s increasingly common in today’s hyper-connected world. It’s the fear that others are having rewarding experiences from which you are absent. This fear often leads to a compulsive need to stay connected, leading people to constantly check their phones.

If someone’s always on their phone, it might be because they’re worried about missing an important update or interesting conversation.

3) Multitasking

Contrary to popular belief, multitasking doesn’t always mean being more productive. In fact, research suggests that only about 2% of the population can effectively multitask.

People who constantly check their phones may believe they’re multitasking efficiently by juggling their device and other tasks. However, in reality, they could be reducing their productivity. This is because our brains aren’t wired to focus on multiple tasks at once.

If you see someone who’s always on their phone while trying to do something else, they might just be a self-proclaimed multitasker who’s yet to realize the truth about this trait.

4) Need for validation

We live in an era where likes, shares, and comments are often taken as a form of social validation. This can sometimes create a psychological dependency on our phones, as we constantly check for that new like or comment.

People who are always checking their phones may be seeking this form of validation. It’s a way to measure their social worth or popularity.

This need for validation is deeply ingrained in human nature. But when it’s tied to our digital interactions, it can lead to an unhealthy attachment to our devices. Recognizing this trait can be the first step towards healthier phone habits.

5) Procrastination

We’ve all had those days when we can’t bring ourselves to tackle the task at hand. Instead, we often turn to our phones as an escape.

People who constantly check their phones might be habitual procrastinators. Their phone serves as a convenient distraction from the tasks they’re avoiding.

The easier access we have to distractions, the more likely we are to procrastinate.

When you see someone incessantly scrolling through their phone, it might just be their way of putting off something else they should be doing.

6) Loneliness

Isn’t it ironic how in a world so connected, people can still feel alone?

Constantly checking phones can sometimes be a sign of loneliness. Individuals may turn to their digital world when they feel isolated in their physical one.

A study found that excessive smartphone use can be a sign of loneliness and depression. The virtual world offers an escape from reality, filled with interactions that might temporarily mask feelings of loneliness.

So, before judging someone who’s always on their phone, remember – their screen might be providing the companionship they feel they lack in the real world. It’s a reminder for us all to reach out, connect and show understanding to those around us.

7) Insecurity

There was a time when I found myself constantly checking my phone, especially in social situations. I later realized it was my insecurity manifesting.

People who often check their phones might be dealing with feelings of insecurity. In uncomfortable or unfamiliar situations, our phones can serve as a security blanket, providing a sense of comfort and control.

The screen acts as a barrier between us and the world around us, giving us the illusion of being in our own safe space. This can make social interactions less intimidating for those who struggle with insecurity.

If you see someone constantly on their phone, they might be dealing with deeper feelings of insecurity. It’s a reminder that their phone habit might be more about seeking comfort than avoiding conversation.

8) Boredom

Boredom is a common reason for checking our phones. In moments of downtime, our phones provide easy access to entertainment and engagement.

People who constantly check their phones might just be bored. The quick fix of a funny video or an interesting article can instantly alleviate feelings of boredom.

A study found that people are more likely to turn to their phones during periods of low activity or boredom.

If you see someone always on their phone, it might just be that they’re trying to fill their time. It’s a reminder that sometimes, we could all benefit from a little more offline stimulation.

9) Low self-control

At the core of the constant phone-checking habit, lies a trait that’s often overlooked – low self-control.

People who find it hard to resist checking their phones frequently might be struggling with self-control. Their phones, with their endless notifications and updates, present a constant temptation that they find hard to resist.

A study found a significant correlation between smartphone addiction and self-control. The lower a person’s self-control, the more likely they are to overuse their smartphone.

If you know someone who’s always on their phone, it might be a sign of low self-control. It’s a reminder that overcoming this habit often requires more than just willpower – it requires strategies to improve self-control.