“Mostly symbiotic but partly parasitic”: Constructions of cell phone use

Abstract

Cell phones are complex tools that offer many functions and are represented in a multitude of ways in the literature, from addiction concerns to providing mobile therapy. In this research, I explored how cell phone users construct their relationship with their cell phone. Ten participants were interviewed about their experiences within three types of cell phone use: non-problematic cell phone use, problematic cell phone use, and the transition between non-problematic and problematic cell phone use. I approached this research from a social constructionism perspective and analyzed data using interpretative repertoires discourse analysis. Interpretative repertoires were identified within each of the three types of cell phone use. Results demonstrated when users make sense of their relationship with their cell phone, they pay attention to intentionality, mindful presence, the amount of time spent on their cell phone, distracting and addictive qualities of their cell phone, the utility of the cell phone, and the process by which they make active choices regarding how to engage with their device. Findings are discussed with respect to the relationship to the current literature on cell phone use, and implications for counsellors and future research