The mediating effect of insecure adult attachment on the relationship between smartphone addiction and self-directed learning in university students

Abstract

(1) Purpose: This study aimed to explore the mediating effect of insecure adult attachment on the relationship between smartphone addiction and self-directed learning in university students. (2) Methods: In total, 235 university students participated in this study. Data analysis was carried out through a three-stage verification procedure: Sobel test using technical statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis. (3) Results: Smartphone addiction was positively correlated with insecure adult attachment, attachment anxiety, and self-directed learning, whereas self-directed learning had a significant negative correlation with insecure adult attachment and attachment anxiety. Insecure adult attachment had a mediating effect on the relationship between smartphone addiction and self-directed learning. (4) Conclusion: Higher levels of smartphone addiction indicated higher levels of insecure adult attachment and reduced self-directed learning ability. Therefore, while the prevention of smartphone addiction is critical for improving self-directed learning skills, programs should be developed to foster the formation of secure adult attachment among university students.