A Qualitative Analysis of College Student Use of Mobile Phones for Family Communication
Date
2012-08
Authors
Alderson, John
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Abstract
This study looks at how mobile phone technology is influencing the familial relationships students have during college and the transition to adulthood. Using a qualitative in-depth interview method, fifteen college students were sampled regarding their mobile phone use and their perceptions of the technology. In line with preexisting research, this study shows that college students use their mobile phones to maintain a high level of connection with their families for both support and security, but that the technology can also become a distraction. This study also finds that mobile phones are used to manage the transition from living with family to adulthood that takes place while in college because of the support and security mobile phones offer to users. The conclusion is that mobile phones are undoubtedly influencing college student life and family relationships.
Description
Keywords
Mobile phones, Family communication, College students
Citation
Alderson, J. (2012). A qualitative analysis of college student use of mobile phones for family communication (Unpublished thesis). Texas State University-San Marcos, San Marcos, Texas.