Sex or Smartphone? - Analysis of the Relationship between Problematic Smartphone Usage and Sexual Activity Based on Homogeneous and Heterogeneous IDs and Machine Learning Algorithms

Objective. Our study explores the correlation between problematic smartphone use (PSU) and diminished offline sexual activity within a European Union member state characterized by a semi-peripheral economy. Background. Smartphones, as pervasive technological advancements, have transformed societal landscapes, embedding themselves into various facets of life and exacerbating physical and emotional reliance. Over 50% of users continue smartphone use despite adverse effects on daily life, indicating an escalation in PSU. Our research extends existing PSU literature by investigating its relationship with offline sexual inactivity among middle-aged individuals. Study Design. A representative sample from 2023 was analyzed using both homogeneous (Two- NN) and heterogeneous (HIDALGO) dimensional identification estimators alongside machine learning algorithms to explore the link between PSU and offline sexual inactivity. Participants. The study utilized data from a telephone survey conducted with 1005 individuals, ensuring representation across gender, education, income level, and type of settlement. Measurements. Data encompassed economic, sociodemographic, usage patterns, and addiction- related aspects of smartphone use. A key variable assessed preferences between mobile phone use or engaging in sexual intercourse. Results. Nearly half of the participants expressed a preference for smartphone usage over offline sexual activity. The analysis highlighted the intricate link between individual and social aspects of PSU and a blend of socioeconomic factors, revealing two significant partitions significantly influencing sexual inactivity: PSU at the individual level and PSU articulated within social relationships. Conclusions. Our findings indicate a significant correlation between PSU and offline sexual inactivity, with socioeconomic variables also playing a critical role. The research underscores the need for further exploration of PSU's impact on offline sexual activity, emphasizing the importance of both personal and social psychological dimensions of smartphone usage.