An Exploration of Family Mobile Touch Screen Device Use and Parent-Child Attachment

Abstract

My PhD research explored the influence of smartphone and tablet computer device use by parents and children on their parent-child relationships. A systematic review and a series of three qualitative studies were conducted. Parents reported pros and cons of device use depending on how, why and when devices were used. The context of the wider family and community was also important to consider. The findings will help inform guidelines of family device use.