Almost 65 per cent of US consumers spend more time with a computer than with their partners, new research has claimed.
A study conducted by independent research firm Kelton Research on behalf of Support.com confirmed consumers' growing relationship with technology in their everyday lives.
More than eight out of 10 Americans indicated that they are more dependent on their home computer now than they were three years ago.
According to the research, the average consumer has experienced computer troubles eight times over the past three years.
It also claimed that the average American is wasting 12 hours a month, the equivalent of half a weekend, dealing with home computer problems.
The majority of Americans (52 per cent) describe their most recent experience with a computer problem as one of 'anger', 'sadness' or 'alienation'.
"As computers become increasingly pervasive in our lives, our relationships with them can begin to seem almost as important as with a significant other," said Dr Robi Ludwig, a psychotherapist and host of reality TV series One Week to Save a Marriage.
"When problems occur with the computer, it often leaves people feeling frustrated or helpless."
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