The effects of smartphone use during play on performance and enjoyment among recreational golfers

Smartphone use during play is common feature of recreational golf. It is not known, however, whether this form of behaviour has any impact on golfers’ performance or round enjoyment. The present study is the first to address this question. Based on theories of cognitive switching and psychological detachment, we propose that frequent digital distraction resulting from smartphone use during play would negatively affect both performance and round enjoyment. We surveyed 186 recreational golfers (94% male) with a mean age of 55.7 years (SD=15.8) at five different courses directly after their participation in mid-week club competitions. Participants were asked to report their age, handicap, gross score, level of round enjoyment, and the frequency and nature of their smartphone use during the round. Our results indicate that smartphone use for work-related purposes has a small negative effect on performance (β = 0.11), but that smartphone use for personal purposes has no effect. Additionally, we find no direct relationship between smartphone use and round enjoyment, but propose that it may indirectly impact enjoyment through its impact on performance. Recreational players aiming to improve their concentration during rounds should be mindful of the manner in which digital distractions can disrupt performance routines during play.