Overuse of mobile devices hurts marriage

Spending too much time on a mobile device can damage a marriage, research from the All-China's Women's Federation (ACWF) has found.

Surveying 31,344 people nationwide, the ACWF found those spending too much time with digital devices reported significantly lower marital satisfaction than those who are not.

More than 73 percent of respondents said their smartphones are open all day long and 43 percent of the interviewees said they play with electronics during family get-togethers or when conversing with their spouse.

Urban residents are increasingly suffering from mobile device addiction, said Huang Huaijun, a psychologist with Central South Hospital.

In addition to hurting marriages, overusing devices can lead to grumpiness, anxiety and other emotional fluctuations if the couple fail to communicate openly, Huang said.

The ACWF suggests suspending mobile device use for one hour each day and investing more time in face-to-face interactions with family members.