In June 2019 researchers from Germany and the USA published the results of their study to try and replicate findings linking specific personality traits with internet and smartphone over-usage. Earlier research had demonstrated that there was a tendency for internet and smartphone over-usage to be associated with a high level of neuroticism as well as a low degree of conscientiousness and of being a less agreeable person. In addition, it had been noted that those with a higher tendency of internet over-usage were less likely to be an extravert whilst those with a higher tendency of smartphone over-usage were less likely to be open. In this study, a total of 773 individuals from different countries were assessed. Information on internet and smartphone usage plus personality traits was collected via different questionnaires and analysed. Results showed that, to a large extent, the researchers were able to replicate the findings of the earlier research. In addition to a higher tendency for internet and smartphone over-usage being significantly associated with a low degree of conscientiousness and a high level of neuroticism, it was also seen to be associated with a higher degree of social anxiety and a higher level of impulsivity.
Peterka-Bonetta J et al. Personality Associations With Smartphone and Internet Use Disorder: A Comparison Study Including Links to Impulsivity and Social Anxiety. Front Public Health. 2019 Jun 11;7:127.