Neural Mechanisms of Smartphone Addiction: A Systematic Review of Neuroimaging and Related Neurophysiological/Neurostimulation Studies

Background: The rapid integration of smartphones into daily life has undeniably brought immense convenience, but it has also introduced challenges, particularly in the form of problematic smartphone use (often referred to as smartphone addiction). This form of behavioral dependence has been linked to significant impairments in physiological, psychological, and social domains. Methods: In this systematic review, we investigated the neural underpinnings of smartphone addiction through various brain imaging techniques, with a particular emphasis on studies employing functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), electroencephalography (EEG), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and complementary neurostimulation as well as neurophysiological methods. Relevant data were retrieved from major academic databases—including CNKI, PubMed, and Web of Science—using a thorough keyword-based search strategy. A total of 41 studies were analyzed and categorized according to their research methods, participant characteristics, targeted populations, and key findings. Results: We identified a consistent association between smartphone addiction and alterations in brain structure and activity, as well as its co-occurrence with a range of mental health challenges. Conclusion: These findings collectively underscore the pressing need for further research into the neurobiological mechanisms of smartphone addiction and the development of targeted interventions to mitigate its adverse effects. The PROSPERO Registration: CRD420261369691, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420261369691.