Exploring Work-Related Smartphone Dependency Among Young Working Adults in China: A Qualitative Approach

Authors

  • Li Li Nanyang Technological University
  • Trisha T. C. Lin Nanyang Technological University

Keywords:

smartphone dependency, young working adults, dependency relations, task characteristics, organizational norms

Abstract

This study extends the application of media system dependency theory to explore the work-related dependency relations of young working adults with their smartphones and the antecedents of such smartphone dependency. By conducting semistructured interviews with 32 young employees in China, this study showed that Chinese young workers mainly depend on their smartphones for understanding (e.g., being updated of the events in their work), orientation (e.g., performing work-related actions), and communication (e.g., contacting and interacting with colleagues) at work. Three task attributes (i.e., task interdependence, task mobility, and time criticality) and organizational norms influence the work-related smartphone dependency of Chinese young workers. Implications for theories and practices are discussed.

Author Biographies

Li Li, Nanyang Technological University

Li Li is a PhD Candidate in the Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. Her research interests focus on the uses and impacts of new media technologies, and mobile communication. Contact: 31 Nanyang Link, WKWSCI building, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637718. Tel: 65-67906971 Email: lili0026@e.ntu.edu.sg.

Trisha T. C. Lin, Nanyang Technological University

Trisha T.C. Lin (PhD, University of Hawaii, Manoa) is an Assistant Professor in the Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. Her research interests focus on emerging video technologies and social media, telecommunication policy, mobile communication. Contact: 31 Nanyang Link, WKWSCI building, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637718.Tel: t65 67905771. Email: trishalin@ntu.edu.sg.

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Published

2016-06-15

Issue

Vol. 10 (2016)

Section

Articles

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