"In the Presence of the Other": Mobile Phone Technology and Insecurity in Marital Life; An Iranian Narrative Unfolding Gender Differences

Document Type : Original article

Authors

1 Faculty of Sociology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran. Research fellow at Pooyesh-Fekri-Tosee Think Tank, Isfahan, Iran.

2 Faculty of Sociology, Research Fellow at Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada

3 Department of Social Communication, Faculty of Sociology, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

10.22059/jcss.2024.374927.1102

Abstract

This paper aims to explore how mobile phone technology shapes interactions between couples and creates a controversial atmosphere in marital life. To achieve this, we conducted 30 in-depth interviews with married individuals in Isfahan, Iran. After coding and categorizing the data using the grounded theory method, we identified "insecurity" as a core category. Feeling insecure is largely influenced by one's interpretation of their partner's "mobile phone etiquette" and "social media behavior". Insecurity manifests in four main dimensions: “emotional insecurity”, “relationship insecurity”, “individual insecurity”, and “domestic insecurity”. We noted that the marital life context, including trust and sexual satisfaction plays a crucial role in how couples perceive and interpret each other's use of mobile phones. However, gender is the most significant factor affecting individuals' perception of mobile phone, their interpretation of their spouse’s use, and their experience of insecurity as a result. This research utilizes social analysis to examine the effects of technology on family life. The research findings hold both academic and practical implications. Professionals involved in the field of family and couples' relationships can benefit from this paper to deepen their understanding of the role and significance of mobile phones in contributing to conflicts within marital life.

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Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Cyberspace Studies
Volume 8, Issue 2
July 2024
Pages 239-264

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