Technology Use: Too Much of a Good Thing?

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Sociology
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Growing evidence links excessive technology use to adverse outcomes in adolescents and young adults.
• Limited understanding exists regarding the demographic characteristics of individuals at high risk for problematic technology use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a conceptual framework for modeling technology use patterns.
• To identify demographic factors associated with distinct user types, including those at elevated risk for problematic use.

Main Methods:

• Utilized 2012 Current Population Survey data (Internet Use and Educational Supplements).
• Employed confirmatory and exploratory factor analysis to categorize technology use and identify user types.
• Applied seemingly unrelated regression to analyze demographic correlates of use patterns.

Main Results:

• A three-part categorization (utilitarian, social, entertainment) effectively modeled technology use.
• Five distinct user types were identified, with one exhibiting characteristics of elevated risk for problematic use.
• Females in their twenties, currently in school with greater technology access, were most likely to belong to the high-risk category. Living with both parents was associated with lower risk.

Conclusions:

• The study underscores the importance of identifying specific technology use patterns to recognize individuals at high risk of problematic use.
• Findings can inform the development of targeted interventions and policies concerning technology's societal impact.