Abstract

AN AYURVEDIC FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING SMARTPHONE ADDICTION: ETIOLOGICAL FACTORS, PATHOGENESIS AND CONTEMPORARY CORRELATIONS

Dr. Km. Sheetal, Dr. Bhawana Mittal*, Dr. Ramesh Chandra Tiwari, Dr. Pravesh Kumar

Abstract

Background: Smartphone addiction is an emerging behavioural health concern associated with excessive and uncontrolled digital-device use, with reported effects on sleep, psychological well-being, cognition, and daily functioning. Although not explicitly described in the Ayurvedic classics, its manifestations can be interpreted through established concepts of mental and behavioural disorders. Objective: To explore the Ayurvedic correlation of smartphone addiction with Manovaha Srotodushti and elucidate its etiopathogenesis through classical principles. Methods: A narrative review of classical Ayurvedic texts and contemporary scientific literature was undertaken. Concepts including Prajnaparadha, Asatmyendriyartha Samyoga, Indriyatiyoga, Dhi–Dhriti–Smriti Vibhramsha, Raja–Tama Dosha, Manovaha Srotodushti, Prana Vata, and Nidranasha were critically examined and conceptually correlated with behavioural, psychological, and sleep-related manifestations of smartphone addiction. Key Findings: Excessive smartphone use may be interpreted as Prajnaparadha, involving impairment of Dhi, Dhriti and Smriti, while excessive sensory exposure reflects Asatmyendriyartha Samyoga and Indriyatiyoga. These disturbances may contribute to Raja–Tama predominance, Manovaha Srotodushti, and Prana Vata aggravation, providing a conceptual explanation for compulsive behaviour, cognitive and emotional disturbances, and Nidranasha. Conclusion: Smartphone addiction can be conceptually understood through an Ayurvedic framework integrating Prajnaparadha, sensory overuse, mental Dosha predominance, and Manovaha Srotodushti. This framework may provide a basis for future clinical and experimental research into Ayurvedic approaches to technology-related behavioural and sleep disturbances.

Keywords: Smartphone addiction, Problematic smartphone use, Manovaha Srotodushti; Prajnaparadha, Asatmyendriyartha Samyoga, Nidranasha.