Smartphone Addiction and Emotional Unavailability in Marriage: Perceived Neglect and Attachment Styles

Abstract

The growing reliance on smartphones has altered patterns of emotional interaction within marital relationships. Although smartphones support communication, excessive or compulsive use may interfere with emotional presence and intimacy between spouses. The present study examined the relationship between smartphone addiction and emotional unavailability in marriages, focusing on the mediating role of perceived neglect and the moderating role of attachment styles. Using a cross-sectional correlational design, data were collected from 352 married adults residing in urban areas of Pakistan through standardized Urdu-adapted measures. Emotional unavailability was conceptualized as a multidimensional construct including emotional withdrawal, lack of emotional responsiveness, and avoidance of emotional intimacy. Results indicated that smartphone addiction was positively associated with emotional unavailability and its subdimensions. Perceived neglect partially mediated these relationships, suggesting that feelings of being ignored play a central role in emotional disengagement. Furthermore, attachment styles moderated the associations, such that anxious and avoidant attachment strengthened, while secure attachment weakened, the relationship between smartphone addiction and emotional unavailability. The findings highlight the emotional and relational implications of problematic smartphone use in marriages and underscore the importance of attachment-related vulnerabilities in shaping spouses’ emotional experiences.