ASSESSMENT OF SMARTPHONE USE AND IMPACTS ON YOUTH'S MENTAL HEALTH IN MAIDUGURI.

ABSTRACT This research was carried out on the spread of smartphones has transformed communication, education, and social interaction globally, particularly among young people. Defined as individuals typically aged 13-24 years (UNICEF, 2021), this demographic group has embraced smartphones as essential tools for connectivity and information access. Research indicates that over 80% of youth own or have access to smartphones, with usage patterns linked to both positive outcomes, like educational opportunities, and negative effects, such as addiction and mental health challenges (Sohn, Rees., Wildridge; Kalk, Cater, 2019). Problematic smartphone use (PSU) affects approximately one in four children and young people, correlating with increased anxiety depression, and sleep disturbances (Sohn & Wildridge, 2019) the objectives of the study are to; identify the types of smartphones used by youths in Maiduguri, Borno State. examine the patterns of smartphone use among youth in Maiduguri, Borno State., identify the factors that influence smartphone use among youth in Maiduguri, Borno State., examine the perceived impact of the use of smartphones on the mental health of youths in Maiduguri. Research design is the blueprint that guides the collection and analysis of data, specifying the type of study (e.g., quantitative qualitative, or mixed-methods) and its structure to address research questions effectively (Saunders, Lewis, & Thornhill, 2019). This study set out to investigate smartphone use among youths in Maiduguri, a unique post-conflict urban setting in Northeast Nigeria. The findings reveal a landscape characterized by high adoption, intensive use, and a complex interplay of benefits and challenges. First, the near-universal access to smartphones, dominated by affordable brands like Teeno and Infinix, confirms the successful penetration of low-cost mobile technology in this region. This finding aligns with global trends of digital expansion but specifically highlights how economic realities shape the technological landscape in developing contexts, as noted by GSMA (2021) and BankMyCell (2022). In conclusion, this study has successfully achieved its objectives, providing a comprehensive and empirical snapshot of smartphone use among Maiduguri's youth. The findings confirm that the smartphone is a central and indispensable fixture in their lives, characterized by widespread adoption of affordable technology. The patterns of use reflect a dual reality: the device is a powerful tool for social connectivity, entertainment, and emerging opportunities in education and business, yet it also presents significant risks related to financial strain, distraction, and mental well-being. For Policymakers and Government Agencies: Bridge the Digital Divide: Collaborate with telecommunications companies to develop and implement subsidized data plans for educational websites and applications for students. Prioritize public investment in improving 4G and broadband infrastructure in Maiduguri to ensure stable, high-speed, and affordable internet access., For Educational Institutions: Integrate Technology into Pedagogy: Develop clear guidelines and training for teachers on how to effectively integrate smartphones into the learning process to complement formal education. This could include using educational apps, digital assignments, and moderated online discussion forums. For Parents and Community Leaders: Foster Open Communication and Guidance: Parents should engage in open, non-punitive dialogues with their children about their online activities, focusing on guidance and setting mutually agreed-upon boundaries for use rather than outright restriction., For Health Practitioners: Screen for Digital Distress: Incorporate brief screening questions about smartphone usage habits, sleep patterns, and mood during routine health check-ups for adolescents and young adults to identify early signs of PSU.