Structural Modeling of Nomophobia Based on Brain–Behavioral Systems and Intolerance of Uncertainty: The Mediating Role of Emotional Self-Efficacy among University Students

Amin Moareknezhad; Andisheh Golshan

Authors

Amin Moareknezhad Department of Psychology, Badrud Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran. Author https://orcid.org/0009-0003-8202-8698
Andisheh Golshan Department of Psychology, Badrud Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran. Corresponding Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1321-0440

Keywords:

Nomophobia, brain–behavioral systems, intolerance of uncertainty, emotional self-efficacy, structural equation modeling, university students

Abstract

Objective: This study examined a structural model of nomophobia based on brain–behavioral systems and intolerance of uncertainty, with emotional self-efficacy as a mediator.

Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted among 186 university students. Participants completed measures of the Behavioral Activation System (BAS), Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS), Fight–Flight–Freeze System (FFS), intolerance of uncertainty, emotional self-efficacy, and nomophobia. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlations, multiple regression, and structural equation modeling in SPSS 26 and AMOS 26. Indirect effects were tested using 2,000 bootstrap resamples.

Findings: BAS, BIS, FFS, and intolerance of uncertainty were positively associated with nomophobia, whereas emotional self-efficacy was negatively associated with nomophobia. The predictors collectively explained 52% of the variance in nomophobia. Intolerance of uncertainty was the strongest positive predictor (β = .33 in regression; β = .31 in the structural model), while emotional self-efficacy showed a significant negative effect (β = −.26). The structural model demonstrated acceptable fit (χ²/df = 1.92, GFI = .91, CFI = .92, IFI = .92, RMSEA = .07). Emotional self-efficacy partially mediated the effects of BAS, BIS, FFS, and intolerance of uncertainty on nomophobia; all indirect effects were significant.

Conclusion: Nomophobia appears to reflect the combined influence of neurobehavioral sensitivity, intolerance of uncertainty, and emotional regulatory beliefs. Strengthening emotional self-efficacy and reducing intolerance of uncertainty may represent targets for university-based prevention and counseling programs.

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References

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