You know when your partner concentrates on their phone, ignoring you in the process, something called “phubbing” (phone snubbing)? Well, it doesn’t just stop you connecting with each other and strain your relationship. Much worse, it affects women’s creativity while doing their jobs in the workplace. A study from Bath University, Aston, and IESE Business School sheds light on the negative effects of phubbing, such as its detrimental impact on relationships and mental wellbeing.
A new study of working couples in the US points to repercussions in the workplace as well, but only for female partners. “Phone usage is eroding the connection between couples and hindering their capacity to discuss and address stresses and concerns that are playing on their mind,” said Professor Yasin Rofcanin from the University of Bath’s Future of Work research centre. He adds: “Supportive interactions at home have a positive crossover effect on partners, enhancing their creativity in the workplace.
However, this spiral of support is lost when individuals are absorbed in phone scrolling, missing out on these valuable moments of connection.” Phubbing actually disrupts how a couple balances work and family responsibilities. Analysis of diary entries spanning 15 working days, from 65 full-time, dual-income heterosexual couples with children, in the US, reveals that phone use is disrupting social interaction and the support couples usually provide each other.
It’s a two-way street..
