Phubbing By Gen-Z And Gen-Y: Exploring Smartphone Usage And Its Implications On
Interpersonal Communication In The Workplace
Jurnal Indonesia Sosial Teknologi, Vol. 4, No. 8, August 2023 909
messaging and limited internet access (Lindgren, 2017). As technological advancements
accelerated, subsequent generations of smartphones evolved to offer an extensive array
of features and applications, such as social media platforms, online gaming, video
streaming, and various productivity tools (Alvin, 2022; Alvin & Dewi, 2022; Cipta &
Alvin, 2023; Robin, Alvin, & Hasugian, 2022). These advancements not only captivated
users but also contributed to an exponential rise in smartphone adoption worldwide.
While smartphones have undeniably enhanced our ability to stay connected and
informed, the extensive use of these devices has also led to inadvertent consequences.
Phubbing has emerged as a concerning side effect of constant smartphone usage, often
resulting in the deterioration of face-to-face interactions and the quality of relationships
(Wang, Zhou, Geng, & Lei, 2022). Individuals preoccupied with their smartphones
during social gatherings or even intimate moments inadvertently convey a sense of
disregard for those physically present, leading to feelings of exclusion, neglect, and
frustration (Gao, Shen, Luo, & Xu, 2023).
Moreover, phubbing has been observed in various social settings, including
restaurants, public transportation, and family gatherings, where individuals find
themselves engrossed in their smartphones rather than engaging with others (Gao et al.,
2023). This behavior has sparked debates on whether excessive smartphone use
contributes to a decline in empathy, social skills, and emotional intelligence, all of
which are vital components of healthy interpersonal relationships (Shen, Xie, & Wu,
2023).
Phubbing poses a significant challenge to interpersonal communication, as it
undermines the basic tenets of meaningful human interaction. Effective communication
relies on active listening, mutual respect, and non-verbal cues, which can be disrupted
when one party is preoccupied with their smartphone (Kılıçarslan & Parmaksız, 2023).
The lack of undivided attention can lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and a
diminished sense of connection between individuals, hindering the establishment of
genuine rapport.
In a professional context, phubbing can also have adverse effects on workplace
dynamics. Meetings, for instance, are critical spaces for collaboration, brainstorming,
and decision-making. However, the presence of smartphones during meetings can lead
to distractions, reduce productivity, and ultimately hinder effective communication
among team members.
Beyond the immediate social implications, phubbing has also been associated
with psychological and emotional repercussions. Individuals who frequently experience
phubbing, either as the perpetrator or the victim, may experience feelings of loneliness,
social anxiety, and reduced self-esteem. The dependence on smartphones for validation,
entertainment, and social approval can create a cycle of addiction, leading to a
compulsive need to check notifications and social media updates constantly.
As smartphones continue to shape the fabric of modern society, the issue of
phubbing becomes increasingly pertinent to our interpersonal relationships and overall
well-being. While these devices provide unmatched convenience and connectivity,