Missing Presence’s mission is to shed light on phubbing and its effects on our everyday connections. Through creative multimedia outputs, we spark conversations within individuals and those closest to them about feelings of disconnection, caused by the normalization of phone use during important bonding moments.
Our vision is to help form and foster healthier family dynamics, inspiring self-realization in the realm of phubbing and phone addiction tendencies: leading to a better place where families feel connected, and real-life moments come before screens.
A family that looks good online isn’t the same as a family that actually knows what’s going on with each other. The likes don’t ask how you’re really doing. The comments don’t notice when you go quiet.
Our project not only strives to better other’s bonds and communication, but to also inspire change within ourselves as growing individuals. Missing Presence is a love letter to all of you—a gift born from the snapshots of our own lives and learnings. I wish for nothing more than for our work to be helpful to every day Filipinos fighting for connection.
Connection isn’t just about being in the same room, its about being present in the moment. Missing Presence is our invitation to put the devices down and choose to connect to one another!
As we were working this research project, I was thinking how may this work open the eyes of people to a silent epidemic.
Phubbing Self-Check Quiz
Phubbing Self-Check Quiz
Based on “Missing Presence: The Perception of 18-25 Years Old towards Parental Phubbing”
This quiz helps both parents and young adults reflect on their phone habits during family time. Answer honestly—there are no “wrong” answers, only patterns to notice.
Instructions: For each question, choose A, B, or C based on what feels most true for you. Tally your answers at the end.
Question 1 of 10
During family meals or bonding time, how often do you check your phone?
Question 2 of 10
When a family member is speaking to you, what’s your typical response?
Question 3 of 10
Why do you usually reach for your phone during family time?
Question 4 of 10
How would others describe your presence when you’re together?
Question 5 of 10
When someone points out that you’re on your phone during a conversation, how do you react?
Question 6 of 10
How often do family conversations feel “deep” or emotionally connected?
Question 7 of 10
Before bed or during quiet family evenings, where is your phone?
Question 8 of 10
How do you feel when you are phubbed by someone else?
Question 9 of 10
Has phone use affected your family’s emotional closeness?
Question 10 of 10
What’s one change you’re willing to try?
Healthy Presence
Your phone use stays balanced with family connection. You model mindful habits and protect meaningful moments. Keep it up—your consistency helps everyone in the household feel valued.
A key insight from the research: phubbing is rarely intentional, but its emotional impact is still real. Whether you’re a parent or a young adult, noticing the pattern is the first step toward healthier family dynamics.
Occasional Phubber
You’re not alone—research shows many parents and young adults fall here. Phone use for stress relief or work feels justified, but it can still create subtle emotional distance even when you don’t intend it. The good news: small, intentional changes (phone-free meals, pausing when someone speaks) make a real difference.
A key insight from the research: phubbing is rarely intentional, but its emotional impact is still real. Whether you’re a parent or a young adult, noticing the pattern is the first step toward healthier family dynamics.
The Phubber
Your phone use may be disrupting emotional connection in your family. The study’s findings suggest this pattern, even when normalized or unintentional, can leave others feeling ignored, distant, or less important than a screen. This isn’t about guilt—it’s about awareness. Starting with one phone-free habit a day can begin rebuilding presence.
A key insight from the research: phubbing is rarely intentional, but its emotional impact is still real. Whether you’re a parent or a young adult, noticing the pattern is the first step toward healthier family dynamics.
