Mobile Phones in Romantic Relationships and the Dialectic of Autonomy Versus Connection

Abstract

This study investigates cell phones in perceptions of autonomy and connection within the romantic relationships of college students. Self-report measures of rules for cell phone use, cell phone conflicts and their management, and perceptions of autonomy vs. connection were administered. Results revealed the use of cell phones was a source of autonomy-connection conflict, with higher levels of tension related to more conflict over quantity of calling and texting and over use with the opposite sex. Commonly reported rules pertained to timing of calls and texts, although many reported no rules. Selection and Neutralization were employed to address the dialectical tension.

Keywords:

• Autonomy and Connection
• Cell Phones
• Dialectical Tensions
• Romantic Relationships

Notes

Note. N = 207. (R) = reflected items.

Note. N = 206. (R) = reflected items.

Note. N = 205.

*p < .01.

Note. N = 204.

*p < .01.

Note. N = 205.

*p < .01.

Note. N = 119.

Note. N = 132.

At the time of the coding, Teodora Rotaru was blind to the purpose of the study and was only involved in the project as a coder and in data entry. After the data were collected and analyzed, she was added as an author.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Robert L. Duran

Robert L. Duran (Ph.D., Bowling Green State University, 1981) is a professor in the School of Communication at the University of Hartford.

Lynne Kelly

Lynne Kelly (Ph.D., Pennsylvania State University, 1982) is a professor in the School of Communication at the University of Hartford.

Teodora Rotaru

Teodora Rotaru (M.A., University of Hartford, 2007).