Communications of the ACM
Heavy Smartphone Use Linked to Lower Intelligence
The results of several studies by the University of Waterloo suggest there is some link between heavy smartphone use and lower intelligence.
Credit: BGR.in
New research from the University of Waterloo suggests a link between heavy smartphone use and lower intelligence.
The study suggests smartphone users who are intuitive thinkers, or who depend on gut feelings when making decisions, frequently use their device's search engine rather than their own brainpower. "They may look up information that they actually know or could easily learn, but are unwilling to make the effort to actually think about it," says University of Waterloo researcher Gordon Pennycook.
In contrast, analytical thinkers second-guess themselves and solve problems in a more logical way. Highly intelligent people are more analytical and less intuitive when solving problems.
In three studies involving 660 participants, the researchers examined various measures, such as cognitive styles ranging from intuitive to analytical, in addition to verbal and numeracy skills. They also examined participants' smartphone habits, and found individuals who demonstrated stronger cognitive skills and a greater willingness to think in an analytical way spent less time using their smartphones' search engine function.
The researchers suggest when people avoid using their minds for problem-solving, it may have adverse consequences for aging.
From University of Waterloo
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