Technology and the Global Adolescent

This Element considers the role of culture in the complex interactions of teenagers with technology.

Judith L. Gibbons (Author), Katelyn E. Poelker (Author)

9781108714181, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 16 April 2020

75 pages, 9 b/w illus.
22.7 x 15.3 x 0.6 cm, 0.16 kg

Around the world, adolescents use technology for education, to further their identity and socio-emotional development, to access health information, engage in civic activities, and for entertainment. For many, technological advances, especially social media, have drastically influenced how they communicate with family, friends, and romantic partners. Challenges of technology use include the digital divide, internet addiction, and exposure to cyberbullying. The diversity of adolescents' cultural context results in heterogeneous bidirectional influences of technology and teenagers with respect to education and close relationships. Researchers, parents, and policy makers must consider the role of culture in the complex interactions of teenagers with technology.

1. Introduction: The Example of RACHEL
2. Adolescence
3. What are Technology and Media?
4. Technology and Social Change
5. How Do Adolescents Use Media and Technology?
6. Adolescent Identity and Globalization
7. Benefits of Adolescent Technology and Media Use
8. Hazards of Adolescent Technology and Media Use
9. Complex Effects of Media and Technology on Adolescents
10. Conclusion.

Subject Areas: The self, ego, identity, personality [JMS], Social, group or collective psychology [JMH], Child & developmental psychology [JMC], Age groups: adolescents [JFSP2], Globalization [JFFS], Cultural studies [JFC]