The smartphone as a pacifying technology. (Melumad & Pham, 2020)

Welcome to Revise and Resubmit, where we explore the stories behind groundbreaking research. Today, we dive into something that’s always within arm’s reach—your smartphone. Ever wonder why we feel so attached to it, almost like it’s more than just a tool? This episode takes a fascinating look at how our relationship with our phones goes beyond checking emails or scrolling through social media. It’s not just functional; it’s emotional. Researchers are now comparing smartphones to adult pacifiers. Sounds strange, right? But think about it: the comfort we feel holding our phones, the privacy, the personal connection—they all work together to make these devices a source of stress relief. Studies have shown that when we're anxious or overwhelmed, we're more likely to turn to our phones, and—get this—our phones are more comforting than a laptop or even someone else’s phone! But what is it about your smartphone that makes it so psychologically soothing? Could our dependence on these little devices go even deeper than we think? Stay tuned, because we’re about to find out. Reference Melumad, S., & Pham, M. T. (2020). The smartphone as a pacifying technology. Journal of Consumer Research, 47(2), 237-255. Paper link https://doi.org/10.1093/jcr/ucaa005