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Couple Relationships in a Global Context pp 245–259Cite as

Keeping Couples Together when Apart, and Driving Them Apart when Together: Exploring the Impact of Smartphones on Relationships in the UK

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Part of the book series: European Family Therapy Association Series ((EFTAS))

Abstract

Smartphones and internet technology have radically altered the ways in which social and romantic relationships are initiated, consolidated, and maintained. In academic research, a debate has emerged between those who see potential for reconfiguring gender and sexual norms and those who view technology as an interference in the maintenance of serious relationships. However, there is a lack of qualitative research that inductively examines these issues. Addressing this gap, this research draws on in-depth interviews with 30 people aged 18–55 who were in a long-term relationship for at least one year at the point of data collection. We found that internet technology, particularly smartphones, had become a central component of romantic relationships. However, they were also the source of tension, although participants had developed a number of strategies to deal with these issues. Situating these findings within theories of leisure, sex, and individualization, we argue for a middle ground that sees the benefits of smartphones in relationships while also recognizing the potential detriments that exist.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Social Sciences, University of Roehamptom, London, UK

    Mark McCormack

  2. Department of Sociology, Durham University, Durham, UK

    M. F. Ogilvie

Authors
  1. Mark McCormack
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  2. M. F. Ogilvie
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Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Family Studies, Faculty for Social Wellbeing, University of Malta, Msida, Malta

    Angela Abela

  2. Department of Social Policy and Social Work, Faculty for Social Wellbeing, University of Malta, Msida, Malta

    Sue Vella

  3. Department of Health, Physical Education and Consumer Studies, Faculty of Education, University of Malta, Msida, Malta

    Suzanne Piscopo

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McCormack, M., Ogilvie, M.F. (2020). Keeping Couples Together when Apart, and Driving Them Apart when Together: Exploring the Impact of Smartphones on Relationships in the UK. In: Abela, A., Vella, S., Piscopo, S. (eds) Couple Relationships in a Global Context. European Family Therapy Association Series. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-37712-0_15

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