The developmental trajectories of phubbing in Chinese adolescents: a variable-centered and person-centered perspective
By
Jun Zhao
Shoufeng Li
June 10, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Examining the Growth Patterns of Phubbing in Chinese Adolescents: Insights from Variable-Centered and Person-Centered Approaches
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Phubbing among Chinese adolescents and its psychosocial implications
Key Mechanisms Mobile phone usage duration and its association with phubbing trajectories and psychosocial outcomes
Target Population
Care Setting
Key Highlights
Phubbing increased significantly over time among adolescents, with varying rates of change. Four distinct trajectory groups of phubbing were identified based on initial levels and change rates. Longer mobile phone usage duration is linked to higher initial levels of phubbing but may slow the rate of change. Mobile phone usage duration negatively correlates with the rate of change in phubbing, indicating complex dynamics.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Management
Implement differentiated prevention strategies based on identified trajectory groups, such as targeted counseling or peer support programs.
Monitoring & Follow-up
Risks
Patient & Prescribing Data
Longer mobile phone usage may necessitate targeted interventions, such as behavioral therapy or family counseling, to reduce phubbing.
Clinical Best Practices
Utilize longitudinal data to understand phubbing trajectories and their psychosocial impacts. Engage in discussions about mobile phone usage and its social implications with adolescents, using role-playing or scenario-based discussions.
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