Psychometric Review of the Smartphone Addiction Scale (EAS - IC) in Peruvian Adolescents

Abstract

The excessive use of smartphones has raised concerns about their impact on psychological and social well-being. This study developed and validated the Smartphone Addiction Scale (EAS - IC) in Peruvian adolescents. Three dimensions were examined: Smartphone Hobby, Frustration Tolerance, Interpersonal Relationships and Social Perception. A total of 1012 adolescents aged 13 to 17 years were included. Analyses showed that all items met homogeneity and validity criteria. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) indicated good fit for the original model and for gender groups. However, no overall factor was found, suggesting that the dimensions are independent. The alpha and omega coefficients showed good reliability for all dimensions and sex groups. The scale provides a valid and reliable tool to measure smartphone addiction in Peruvian adolescents, with direct scores and established percentiles. It highlights the importance of addressing this problem in the Peruvian context and adapting measurement tools to better understand its psychological and social implications. This study contributes to the development of instruments adapted to specific cultural contexts, addressing the need to better explore and understand smartphone addiction, especially among adolescents, a population vulnerable to its effects.