"THE INFLUENCE OF THE MOBILE PHONE ON YOUNG ADULT COMMUNICATION"

Abstract

The convergence of media technology can now be held in one’s hand. It offers new ways to communicate, unrestricted by location, mostly related to free choice and autonomy. Its portability has made possible the co-presence of synchronous and asynchronous communication, and has contributed to the popular notion that young adults are proficient multi-taskers. The ubiquitous use of the mobile phone by young adults serves as a vehicle for self-expression and collective identity, often through the use of text messaging and social media. This paper will explore some of the kinds of communication that are afforded via the mobile phone, and will then question some the potential strengths and weaknesses in communicating this way.