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Mobile Technologies and Youthful Exploration: Stimulus or Inhibitor?

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  • Michael Leyshon
  • Sean DiGiovanna
  • Briavel Holcomb

Abstract

In this paper, an examination is made of how young people locate themselves in the world through using GPS-enabled mobile phones. Three research themes are explored. First, how GPS mobile phones encourage young people to explore new territory by providing both spatial information and a ‘lifeline’ to security. Secondly, how parental surveillance encourages or discourages exploration. Finally, how the accessibility of spatial data reduces the need to try new routes or memorise landscape features. In so doing, two myths of mobile phone use are challenged: that the revolution in mobile technology has caused the ‘death of distance’ and created a borderless world through space–time compression and that mobile technologies atomise quotidian life into a series of impersonal mediated encounters. The research, conducted in New Jersey, USA, and Cornwall, UK, shows that mobile phones appear to give young people more confidence in exploring new places, but also distract them from observing their surroundings.

Suggested Citation

  • Michael Leyshon & Sean DiGiovanna & Briavel Holcomb, 2013. "Mobile Technologies and Youthful Exploration: Stimulus or Inhibitor?," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 50(3), pages 587-605, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:urbstu:v:50:y:2013:i:3:p:587-605
    DOI: 10.1177/0042098012468897
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    References listed on IDEAS

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