HIDDEN DIGITAL DEPENDENCE ON SMARTPHONES AMONG MOROCCAN USERS: A FIELD STUDY FROM A NEURO-CYBERNETIC PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Objectives: The study aims to examine the prevalence of hidden digital dependency on smartphones among Moroccan users from a neuro-cyber perspective, analyze its relationship with daily usage intensity and neuro-related psychological and behavioral symptoms, and explore differences between the studied groups..

Methods: The study used the descriptive analytical approach to describe and analyze the hidden digital dependency phenomenon among Moroccan smartphone users, relying on the statistical method and data analysis using SPSS software (version 26).

Results:. The findings revealed a significant prevalence of hidden digital dependency in Morocco, especially among youth, with a positive correlation between intensive smartphone use and levels of anxiety, sleep disorders, and physical fatigue. The study also observed low awareness of cybersecurity risks and difficulty regulating use despite awareness of its negative consequences.

Conclusions: The study confirms that digital dependency is a phenomenon combining neurological, psychological, and social effects within the Moroccan digital environment. It recommends developing comprehensive strategies that include national awareness campaigns, technical and psychological intervention programs, enhancement of cybersecurity skills, and active family involvement in prevention efforts.