教甄◆英文科題庫下載題庫

(31-40)

       According to a recent survey conducted by the International Telecommunication Union, there are six billion mobile phone service subscriptions __31___ worldwide. In developed countries, close to half of the cell phones being used are smartphones. Although these devices are great for many things, they are also the source of several problems.

        Etiquette experts agree that smartphones are taking their ___32___ on modern manners. In the past, giving one’s undivided attention to others when meeting was the norm. Now, checking social networking sites via a phone while mid-conversation is a regular occurrence. In fact, eight out of ten smartphone users state that they have no ___33___ about using their phones at least occasionally in social settings. When these users are indifferent about how they could be affecting others, it can be unpleasant for people in their vicinity. The competing sounds of numerous smartphone games being played ___34___ on public transportation is becoming all too common, as is having a darkened movie theater illuminated by people who can’t wait to answer their texts.

         Social interactions aren’t the only things ___35___ ; a number of new mental issues are also being attributed to the widespread use of cell phones. One of these is Nomophobia (a blend of “no mobile phone phobia”), an overwhelming fear of being out of mobile phone contact. For people with this phobia, the idea of being unable to use their cell phone is more frightening than an appointment to the dentist; ___36___ , they often own multiple phones so that they are safeguarded from ever being without one. In the U.S. and U.K., around 40% of smartphone owners are estimated to have at least a mild form of this.

          Phantom Ringing Syndrome, sometimes referred to by its ____37___ name Ringxiety, has also become quite common. When people receive calls, texts, instant messages, and other alerts frequently, their brains are in a state of constant anticipation. This sometimes causes one to imagine that he or she hears a phone ringing or vibrating when it really isn’t. Studies show that over 60% of cell phone users experience this, and the ___38____ of it happening increases with the amount of time spent on one’s phone.

          Smartphones have become such an integral part of modern life that 80% of users believe they couldn’t live without them. In one survey, almost a third of the people interviewed said they wouldn’t give up their devices for a single day even if they received monetary compensation. Additionally, in an online questionnaire 22% of those who responded said they would give up their toothbrushes ___39___ their smartphones. Although smartphone addiction is a relatively new concept, there is evidence that some users could be greatly affected by it.

         While it can’t ___40___ that smartphones provide many benefits to their users, it would be wise for everyone to monitor their own usage to prevent any significant problems from developing.