New Technology Evokes Old Memories: Frequent Smartphone Use Increases Feeling of Nostalgia.

This article investigates the psychological consequences of frequent smartphone use, focusing on its impact on individuals' sense of control and the compensatory role of nostalgia. Across five studies involving 918 participants, the research found that frequent smartphone use decreases people's sense of control by causing distractions and interruptions, which in turn triggers feelings of nostalgia. Nostalgia, defined as a sentimental longing for the past, was shown to effectively restore the diminished sense of control primarily by enhancing self-esteem, without increasing the intention to use smartphones. These findings highlight nostalgia as an accessible psychological strategy to mitigate the negative effects of frequent smartphone use on perceived control, suggesting potential avenues for managing smartphone-related distractions in daily life.