Increasing Smartphone Addiction in Elementary School Children and Its Impact on Social Emotional Development

Abstract

This literature review examines the increasing smartphone addiction among elementary school students
and its impact on their social-emotional development. According to Kominfo data (2022), smartphone
usage among children aged 6-12 years has reached 67%, a significant increase compared to 23% five
years ago. This study aims to identify the causes of smartphone addiction in elementary school students
and analyze its impact on social-emotional development. The research method used is a literature study by
collecting and analyzing various relevant sources. The results show that smartphone addiction is caused
by internal factors, including physiological aspects related to dopamine release, and external factors, such
as lack of parental supervision. While controlled smartphone use can enhance digital skills and support
learning processes, excessive use leads to difficulties in social interaction, emotional control problems,
and decreased socialization abilities. This study suggests the importance of consistent parental supervision
and the integration of traditional games as alternative activities to reduce children's dependence on
smartphones.