Smartphone Habits Among Youth: Uses and Gratification Theory

Rapid technological advancements have led to Smartphone revolution of becoming multifunctional personal devices. These smart phones are equipped with new features, including Internet access, cameras (pictures and videos) and MP3 players. The study examines the complex forces that influence and challenge the socio-cultural values among youth. It investigates the extent to which smart phones were used and their implications for youth in a society that is bounded within the Malay Islamic Monarchy concept. The research questions were explored through the use of qualitative research method, specifically, focus groups and in-depth interviews. The framework utilized to examine the data is the Uses & Gratifications theory. A number of significant findings signify firstly, the tendency for owning smart phone is influenced by the family. Parents gave smart phones to their children either as birthday gifts or after having performed well or passed their final Junior School Examination. Secondly, almost all of the respondents perceived smart phone as the most useful communication device as a mean to contact their friends and families. Thirdly, two important factors for smart phone ownership among youth include safety and emergency purposes. Finally, they also perceived smart phones as a status symbol.