A new perspective on phone use suggests it may reflect unmet emotional needs rather than simple addiction. Recent analysis highlighted by VegOut Magazine on June 20, 2025 argues that heavy screen time can be a signal of seven core needs going unfulfilled in daily life, reframed as an opportunity for healthier living rather than a moral failing.
In Thailand’s rapidly digitizing society, the topic resonates deeply. Data from the National Statistical Office in 2024 shows that over 90% of adults aged 18–35 consider their mobile phone essential, yet more than half wish they could spend significantly less time staring at screens. This paradox fuels concerns among parents, teachers, and health professionals about technology’s role in daily life and education.
A Dscout study cited in the discussion reveals that the average user taps, swipes, and unlocks their device thousands of times daily. This behavior is described not only as habit but as an “emotional signal flare.” Seven emotional needs—connection, recognition, novelty, autonomy, comfort, purpose, and progress—are identified as commonly substituted by phone use through in-depth interviews and coaching insights.
Thai educators and culture observers note Sherry Turkle’s observation that “we expect more from technology and less from each other.” In Thai contexts—from Chiang Rai’s students to Bangkok office workers—notifications can serve as a substitute for genuine social contact. When real bonds feel tenuous, pocket devices become a convenient stand-in for community and conversation.
Experts caution that meaningful fulfillment can be found offline if we address these underlying cravings. For example, digital acknowledgments such as likes and stickers on messaging apps offer rapid recognition, which resonates in Thai culture that values social harmony. When real-life recognition falls short, virtual applause can feel disproportionately important.
Practical strategies emphasize reintroducing “rituals of togetherness.” Simple actions like regular family meals, community activities such as temple volunteering, or short daily chats with elders can help meet needs for connection and recognition. As one observer notes, an unhurried, genuine conversation can beat dozens of emoji reactions.
Novelty is another driver of screen use. Fresh online feeds can be mentally exhausting, and doomscrolling rarely yields lasting satisfaction. Thai digital detox efforts show that engaging in new offline activities—learning a local dish, exploring markets, or tending a garden—significantly reduces the urge to check devices.
Autonomy, or feeling in control, is challenged by hierarchical workplaces and family expectations in Thai society. While devices offer personalized content, healthier autonomy can be fostered by scheduling small “choice slots” for decisions, such as weekend breakfast selections or personal hobbies. Self-determination theory researchers emphasize that people are most motivated when they feel in control of their actions.
Comfort seeking—turning to phones to escape awkward moments or stress—can be addressed by a “comfort menu” of offline activities. Herbal tea breaks, strolls in tree-lined streets, or simple breathing exercises provide relaxation without digital dependence.
Purpose and progress are closely tied to cultural attitudes in Thailand, including Buddhist principles of meaningful living. Screen-led stimulation can obscure real-world goals. Offline strategies include tracking real-world achievements in a notebook, starting garden projects, or mentoring local students. These often yield deeper satisfaction than virtual badges or streaks.
Thailand’s cultural context adds further resonance. Activities such as temple participation, Songkran celebrations, and communal cooking highlight the value of face-to-face connection. Traditional concepts of sanook (joy) and sabai (ease) underscore that genuine well-being comes from lived experiences, not constant digital reinforcement.
Researchers caution about potential risks if needs remain unaddressed. Studies indicate rising anxiety, sleep disturbance, and social isolation among youth with heavy device use. Thai educators and healthcare professionals advocate for policy and community responses—digital literacy in schools, device-free periods, and mindfulness practices rooted in local traditions.
To rebalance smartphone use, practitioners suggest choosing one unmet need and addressing it offline for a week. Examples include evening conversations with a neighbor, rekindling a hobby like watercolor painting, or temple meditation. Early reports show that small, consistent actions reduce reflexive device use and help restore attention to meaningful activities.
For Thais seeking to reduce phone dependence, the takeaway is to identify unmet emotional needs and pursue real-world solutions through family ties, community involvement, and personal growth. Transformation may take time, but incremental changes can restore balance and improve well-being.
Further reading on emotional health and digital well-being draws from thoughtful commentary in VegOut Magazine, and insights from Thailand’s mental health resources emphasize practical, culturally appropriate approaches to healthier digital habits.