A meta-analysis on the association between self-esteem and problematic smartphone use

Addictive behaviors have traditionally been associated with low self-esteem, and Problematic Smartphone Use (PSU) has recently received increasing scientific attention as a potential behavioral addiction. The present meta-analysis aims to examine the strength of the relationship between PSU symptoms and global self-esteem. A keyword-based systematic literature search was performed to identify studies in which PSU symptoms and global self-esteem were assessed. Thirty-one independent studies with a total of 27.004 participants (F % = 54.21%; mean age = 17.37 ± 4.97; range: 12.10–34.39 years old) were included. Meta-analytic results of the random effects model applied to a total of 31 independent samples show a negative correlation between self-esteem and PSU ( Fisher's Z = −0.25 ; CI -0.28 , −0.21 ; Z = −14.63 ; p < 0.001). Age, gender and geographical area did not moderate the association. The magnitude of the effect size can be considered small according to Cohen's criteria (1992), and medium according to Hemphill's criteria (2003). The sensitivity analysis and analyses of publication bias confirm that these results are robust. The findings show that low self-esteem is an important hallmark of PSU. Overall, our findings emphasize the importance of addressing self-esteem and corresponding core beliefs in the prevention and treatment of PSU. • A meta-analysis on the relationship between self-esteem and Problematic Smartphone Use (PSU) levels was conducted. • The effect sizes indicate robust associations between self-esteem and PSU. • Age, gender and geographical area did not moderate the association. • Self-esteem should be employed as a relevant dimension in prevention and treatment of PSU.