| This exploratory study aimed to understand the subjective experience of young adults' connection to technology and the impact technology had on their relationships. Seven participants, ages 18-24, went "dark" from using technology to communicate socially (i.e. texting, social media, e-mail) for 72-hours. The investigator interviewed the participants prior to "going dark" as well as following "going dark." The results provided six themes: 1) Quantity and Quality of Social Connections, 2) Pressure to Stay Connected and Busy, 3) Social Technology Use is a Habit, 4) Convenience, Privacy, and Efficiency, 5) Social Technology Use as Distraction and Entertainment, and 6) Nonverbal Cues. None of the seven participants were able to abstain from use for the full 72-hour period. Potential implications were explored and future directions were recommended, such as exploring potential skill deficits, components of mindfulness and the ability to self-reflect, and the meaning of the "real" self in a virtual world. |
