Young People and the Smartphone: Everyday Life on the Small Screen

In recent years, smartphones and digital platforms have become essential to our lives and are now inextricably interwoven into the everyday practices of millions, especially young people. Focusing on smartphone practices and experiences of youth today, this volume is the result of empirical research based on focus groups and in-depth interviews with young people aged 18-30. Grounded in media theory and analyzed through a blended lens of media and science and technology studies, the book offers detailed and fascinating insights into the everyday use of smartphones. Topics covered include the role of the smartphone as material technology, its use in interpersonal relationships, photographic practices, music and consumer practices, along with the deconstruction of the notion of smartphone ‘addiction’.
Michela Drusian teaches Sociology of Consumption at IUSVE-Venice, where she is the coordinator of research activities for the Department of Communication and Education. Her research interests focus on the relationship between young people and new media.
“Smart, highly accessible and fully grounded in empirical research, this book provides essential insight into the role that smart phones play in young people’s everyday lives.”
—Susanna Paasonen, Professor of Media Studies, University of Turku

“Each chapter introduces current research on various aspects of the smartphone experience and provides insightful examples of how young adults evaluate and engage with these devices. Students will appreciate this very contemporary material.”
—Leslie Haddon, London School of Economics
Paolo Magaudda is Associate Professor in Sociology of Culture and Communication at the University of Padova. His work concentrates on the interactions between culture, technology and society with a focus on digital media, consumption processes and music technologies.

Cosimo Marco Scarcelli is Assistant Professor in Sociology of Culture and Communication at the University of Padova. His research interests deal with the relationship between digital media, intimacy, gender and sexuality with a focus on young people.