Factors Influencing Soldiers’ Smartphone Use during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Focusing on COVID-19 Stress and Social Support

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to investigate the influence of COVID-19 stress on the level of smartphone use among soldiers. In addition, it explores the potential moderating effect of social support as a protective factor.Methods: We collected responses from 205 soldiers serving in one military division in Chungcheongbuk-do using cross-sectional online and offline surveys. The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and hierarchical regression analysis using the SPSS 27.0 program.Results: Controlling for covariates, COVID-19 stress and social support were significant factors influencing the level of smartphone use. The analysis did not identify a moderating effect of social support on the relationship between pandemic stress and smartphone use.Conclusions: Our study results could help military and mental health organizations intervene in problematic smartphone use by creating programs for soldiers at high risk for COVID-19 stress.