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@article{203762,
        author = {Jigyasa Goyal and Ishita Gouchwal and Aradhya Sharma},
        title = {Nomophobia and Toxic Relationship Patterns Among Young Adults (18–30): A Sequential Mixed-Methods Study},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {13},
        number = {1},
        pages = {149-158},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=203762},
        abstract = {The growing dependence on smartphones among young adults has raised worries about nomophobia's effect on social connections. This research investigates the link between nomophobia and toxic relationship patterns in people aged 18–30 through a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach. During the quantitative phase, participants filled out the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q) to evaluate smartphone dependence and examine gender variations. Statistical evaluation indicated no considerable difference between males and females (p = .884), implying similar levels of nomophobia between genders. The qualitative phase included semi-structured interviews, which were thematically analyzed, uncovering significant patterns: anxiety due to inability to reach partners, frequent message checking, miscommunication via text, feelings of neglect from excessive phone use, and smartphones serving as emotional escapes. The excessive use of devices can lead to adverse effects on communication, emotional bonds, and relationship strain, despite their role in improving connectivity. Studies show that nomophobia affects relationship dynamics and promotes harmful behaviors, regardless of gender differences. These findings highlight the necessity of establishing digital well-being programs and enhancing communication strategies within social and romantic settings as dependence on smartphones increases.},
        keywords = {Nomophobia, Relationship dynamics, Smartphone dependence, Toxic relationships, young adults},
        month = {June},
        }