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How Adolescents Use Text Messaging Through their High School Years
Samuel E Ehrenreich1, Kurt J Beron2, Kaitlyn Burnell2
1University of Nevada, Reno.
Summary
Adolescents use texting to navigate developmental challenges, with communication frequency peaking in eleventh grade. Texting with peers and romantic partners is frequent, while parent communication remains consistent.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Media Psychology
- Adolescent Behavior
Background:
- Co-construction theory posits digital communication aids adolescent development.
- Understanding adolescent digital communication patterns is crucial for developmental research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the frequency, content, and timing of adolescent texting with parents, peers, and romantic partners.
- To examine how texting relates to key adolescent developmental challenges.
Main Methods:
- Direct observation of 214 ethnically diverse adolescents across grades 9-12.
- Analysis of texting frequency, content, and recipient (parents, peers, romantic partners).
Main Results:
- Texting frequency showed a curvilinear pattern, peaking in eleventh grade.
- Adolescents primarily texted peers about diverse topics.
- Consistent, though less frequent, communication occurred with parents.
- 45-65% of adolescents texted romantic partners frequently on peer-like topics.
Conclusions:
- Texting serves as a significant tool for adolescents in establishing autonomy and identity.
- Digital communication facilitates the navigation of peer and romantic relationships during adolescence.
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