Exploring adolescent smartphone dependence : the case of an international high school in Myanmar

Abstract

The research project evolved from my concerns and those of parents and teachers about students’ inability to regulate their smartphone use in schools. A preliminary review of literature revealed growing concerns worldwide about adolescent smartphone dependence which was affecting students’ academic and social development, amongst many others. It also revealed the area of adolescents’ smartphone dependence to be scantly researched especially in developing countries. Hence, this study. The purpose of the study was to explore levels of smartphone dependence in adolescents at a private school in Myanmar. The study was set in a social constructivist framework and the methodology was qualitative in nature, incorporating a literature review. Participants were purposively selected. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, observations, focus group discussions and questionnaires. The study found that the level of smartphone use at the school was a cause of concern for the stakeholders; adolescents at the target school could be considered dependent on their smartphones. Recommendations to reduce the adolescents’ total screen time were made. Further studies into the management of children’s smartphone use were recommended.