11 March 2005
Young extroverts with low self-esteem are most likely to ignore mobile phone laws and use their phones inappropriately, Monash University researchers have found.
Dr Jim Phillips and Ms Adriana Bianchi from the School of Psychology, Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine assessed why some people were more likely to use mobile phones despite signs banning use on planes, in hospitals and while driving.
The study, which surveyed almost 200 people aged from 18 to 85, found younger users were more likely to be problem phone users.
They also found people who had low self-esteem and extrovert personalities were more likely to use their phones in dangerous or illegal situations.
"Extroverts are socially aware people but they don't score high in our study on the social use indicators," Ms Bianchi said.
"For instance, we asked how many social phone calls people made; we thought extroverts would use their phones excessively for social interaction, but we found that they didn't.
"We believe that they are more likely to use their phones in dangerous situations because of a need for excitement in their lives -- the fact that they are problem users could be linked to sensation-seeking aspects of their personalities."
Ms Bianchi said the study, which rated personalities using a scale based on addictive personality measures, showed problem mobile phone users knew they shouldn't use phones in these situations but couldn't help themselves.
"This is significant as it helps us understand why people are using their phones in dangerous situations and how we can better address the issue," she said.
For further information, contact Ms Diane Squires in the media communications office on 03) 9905 9315 or 0417 603 400.
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