Partner phubbing in romantic relationships

This study aims to determine individuals' perceptions regarding partner phubbing behavior in romantic relationships. Additionally, the study seeks more detailed information based on personal experiences related to partner phubbing behavior, which affects romantic relationship satisfaction. A phenomenological design, one of the qualitative approaches, was utilized in the study. The research sample consisted of 15 participants (10 women and five men aged between 21 and 29 years (X̄= 26.6), who had been in a romantic relationship for at least one month. The study group was selected using criterion sampling, one of the purposive sampling methods. Participants included students and/or working individuals at the associate, undergraduate, and graduate education levels. Semi-structured, face-to-face interviews were conducted with each participant. The findings were analyzed in detail based on codes and categories, resulting in 13 distinct themes. The findings revealed that smartphone usage has become a common practice within relationships and negatively affects interactional factors (emotional, communicative, and relational effects). It was observed that partners turning to their smartphones during leisure time or moments without social interaction reduced the quality of time in romantic relationships, weakened emotional bonds, and led to communication breakdowns. This situation was found to generate feelings of exclusion and neglect in individuals exposed to partner phubbing, triggering negative emotions such as stress, anger, anxiety, and frustration. The study concluded that partner phubbing disrupts communication and causes distractions, lowering relationship satisfaction levels. Partner phubbing behavior was also found to be distracting during daily or planned activities, negatively impacting relationship satisfaction and emotional bonds. Couples predominantly employed strategies like "phone restrictions" in response to partner phubbing behavior and sought to create more quality time in their relationships through social media detoxes and disabling notifications. In conclusion, partner phubbing behavior emerged as a significant factor that threatens relationship satisfaction. The findings were analyzed and discussed, considering the relevant literature. Finally, theoretical and practical implications and suggestions for future research were presented.