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Article
The Perceived Influence of Media and Technology on Adolescent Romantic Relationships
Journal of Adolescent Research
  • J. Mitchell Vaterlaus, Montana State University
  • Sarah Tulane, Utah State University
  • Brandon D. Porter, Utah State University
  • Troy E. Beckert, Utah State University
Document Type
Article
Publisher
Sage Publications, Inc.
Publication Date
5-31-2017
Abstract

Contemporary adolescents rely heavily on technology and media to navigate romantic relationships. In this mixed-methods study, adolescents and young adults (N = 204) detailed their perceptions of how entertainment media and interactive technology influence adolescent romantic relationships. The majority of adolescents and young adults perceived that entertainment media (95%) and interactive technology (97%) did influence adolescent romantic relationships. Using a qualitative analysis approach, we found six major themes. Although entertainment media provided media role models for expected behavior in romantic relationships, it was also associated with the development of unrealistic relational expectations and perceived pressure to be in a romantic relationship. Participants perceived that interactive technology has changed the way adolescents communicate with romantic partners, become integrated into the entire relationship life cycle, and led to a decline in face-to-face communication in adolescent romantic relationships.

Citation Information
Vaterlaus, J. M., Tulane, S.,*Porter, B., & Beckert, T. E. (2017). The perceived influence of media and technology on adolescent romantic relationships. Journal of Adolescent Research, doi: 10.1177/0743558417712611