(KCEN) -- We joke about kids spending too much time on the phone, but it could be a sign of a more serious addiction.
Cell phone addiction is real and people suffering from it exhibit the normal signs of any behavioral addiction.
The average teen sends and receives 200 text messages a day and checks their phone 60 times a day.
So how do you know if it's really addiction?
Dr. Jim Roberts, a Baylor professor heading up a study on cell phone addiction has some tips.
He said, "If your life revolves around your cell phone, if everything you do is, did I get a text? did I get a call?, surfing on the web for shopping, so if it's very integrated deeply into your life there may be a problem."
This addiction actually hurts our ability to interact face-to-face with others.
Roberts says if you believe you're addicted, practice putting the phone away, certain times every day.
Relapse is common in all addictions, so sticking to a routine is best to stay on track.
