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- A behaviour that we're all guilty of has been given a term: phubbing.
- This kind of behaviour can be detrimental to relationships as it takes away attention.
- Relationship expert Lori Zaslow says we should take a break from technology and listen to our partners.
You know when you are trying to have a conversation with someone, but they're miles away because they're distracted by their phone? This behaviour has a term, and it's called 'phubbing'. Phubbing is defined as a person snubbing another person for their phone. FOX 5's Jennifer Williams says almost everyone is guilty of this behaviour in their relationships.
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While some call it a cardinal sin, it has become a way of life. Although it may seem harmless, a recent study by ScienceDirect has linked Phubbing to marital discontent. Relationship expert Lori Zaslow says that if you're not looking someone in the eye and focused on them, then the person or item you're focused on is getting the attention.
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Lori also adds that this type of behaviour sends the wrong message to your loved ones. "Whatever we give our attention to is really, really important, especially in a relationship with a partner, kids or anyone because it doesn't feel good being on the other hand where you are being ignored for something else." A 2022 study in Frontiers revealed that phubbing could even lead to feeling some distrust and exclusion.
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While another study in ScienceDirect found that those who phub a lot are likely phubbed themselves, thus creating a cycle. Lori added that you are not getting real love and attention from your phone, so give someone what you want in return. "It is important to take a break from anything, especially technology. People want to feel like you're listening, you're hearing, and you care."
