Smartphone | What is 'nomophobia'?

Each week, a new workplace term comes onto the scene.

The latest term to make the rounds in the employment world is ‘nomophobia’. The term, which was coined during a 2008 study by the Post Office, was recently discussed by Professor Gary Martin, CEO of the Australian Institute of Management WA in a 2gb.com podcast.

The word ‘nomophobia’ is a mash up of no+mobile+phone+phobia.

Martin explained that if employees experience ‘nomophobia’ this relates to the phobia felt when they are disconnected from their smartphone. This can be brought on by physical detachment from their mobile, lack of service due to their geographic location or no battery life.