Examining effectual, ineffectual and problematic smartphone use: A qualitative exploration of dependence and management behaviours

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This qualitative study examines the multifaceted influences that shape effectual, ineffectual, and problematic smartphone use, as well as the strategies individuals employ to manage their smartphone dependence. Guided by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), and Uses and Gratifications Theory (UGT), this research examined how cognitive, motivational, and behavioural factors interact in everyday smartphone engagement. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 18 adult participants, representing diverse occupational backgrounds including students, professionals, and caregivers. Participants were recruited through purposive and convenience sampling to capture variation in smartphone dependency experiences. Data saturation was reached after 16 interviews, with two additional interviews confirming thematic stability across demographic groups. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic analysis, ensuring methodological rigour and depth through iterative coding and cross-case comparison. Findings from these studies revealed three overarching themes: (1) motivations and contexts driving smartphone use, (2) consequences of overuse across social, occupational, and wellbeing domains, and (3) management strategies reflecting varying degrees of self-regulation and awareness. Participants reported using different tactics, such as app deletion, screen-time monitoring, and physical separation, to mitigate dependence, reflecting constructs of perceived behavioural control (TPB), perceived ease of use (TAM), and goal-oriented gratification (UGT). The study provides empirical grounding for an integrative framework of smartphone behaviour, demonstrating how situational, motivational, contextual, and perceptual factors, alongside patterns of use frequency, interact to influence transitions from effectual to problematic smartphone use. These insights inform digital wellbeing interventions, behavioural models, and policy initiatives promoting balanced smartphone engagement.

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