The Use of Communication Technology in the Context of Adolescent and Family Development: An Integration of Family and Media Theories

Scholars across many academic fields have studied adolescence, family development, and technology use. As such, existing research has reflected the theoretical orientations of several different disciplines—disciplines that have generally operated in silos and without integration. To begin to make meaningful connections among these theoretical ideas, we apply and integrate theories that can help elucidate how parent–child dynamics influence adolescent development in a media-saturated family environment. First, we present some of the paradoxes that have emerged as a result of innovation and the adoption of mobile technology. Then, we provide a brief overview of the theories that have been applied to adolescence and technology in the family context. Finally, we consider opportunities to integrate and apply theoretical ideas from outside adolescent development that can enrich future research.