The informal use of the smartphone by adolescents in residential care: A challenge to promote the socio-educative intervention

Abstract

Currently, there is widespread social concern about the use of Information and Communication Technologies among adolescents, specifically regarding devices such as the Smartphone. The use of mobile phones has become popular in this group, having a different impact on their lives. In view of the fascination that this device produces on them, it is possible to carry out a study on its use. The main objective of this work is to know the patterns that are deduced from the informal use of the Smartphone as the starting point in the design and implementation of socio-educative intervention, particularly with adolescents who are part of the child welfare system, taking into account the vulnerability and complexity that surrounds this collective. This research is framed in the qualitative methodology, and is part of the narrative approach, based on the collection of data with the technique of the story and the interview. The results and conclusions reveal the existence of different use patterns of the mobile phone by adolescents. It should be noted that adolescents subject the use of the device to the constant use of certain apps, due to popularity, easy handle and free-of-charge system. The use of instant messaging systems apps is notorious, particularly WhatsApp and Snapchat in any age bracket. Instagram stands out as the social network that most teenagers use. In general, these applications are used for recreational purposes. Despite having playful content, the influenceof video games is not relevant to the use of the Smartphone by the collective. Finally, it is important to emphasize the comunicative purpose with which the minors use the Smartphone, with the aim of keeping in touch with colleagues and sentimental partners.