From Screen to Scene: A Qualitative Analysis of Smartphone-Zombie (Smombie) Phenomenon

Abstract

This scientific article aims to conduct an exploratory case study of smombies – people seeking satiation through heavy engagement with their handsets, leading to a lack of awareness in their immediate settings. A recent tragedy occurred in a large metropolitan area in southern Punjab, Pakistan, where a student lost his life because he was absorbed in the phone. This death attracted the attention of the researchers to study the dynamics involved in this accident. Drawing from an interdisciplinary approach, the research meticulously examines the social, psychological, and cultural factors contributing to smartphone-induced distraction. The methodology deployed includes an extensive review of secondary literature, coupled with primary research involving qualitative interviews with individuals closely related to the victim, such as friends, family, classmates, and instructors. The intricacies addressed in the study highlight the sophistication and severity of the problem that extends far from simple distraction to important cultural and lifestyle dimensions. To summarize, not only do the authors deliver the message urging the audience to take action, but they have also grounded several proposals for further research and policy recommendations. These lessons are expected to enable the formation of a comprehensive framework of evidence that will drive the consolidated work towards addressing the broader issues of smartphone use in the context of pedestrian safety.