Mobile-izing: significance of the cell phone

Abstract

Introduction. Smartphone ownership iscurrently expanding exponentially; the periodfrom the first quarter of 2014 to the first quarterof 2015 saw an increase of 13.5%, or 330 million1. In Mexico, cell phones constitute an integral partof many people’s daily lives, creating new formsof social interaction. With its many uses, thesmartphone has allowed us to inform ourselvesand communicate instantaneously in addition tobeing a platform for many applications that all fitwithin the palm of our hands. However, there is alsoa darker side to the cell phone: its overuse.Goal:To interpret the importance given by administrativestaff to the use of their cell phones. Methodology:Qualitative, phenomenological, and interpretivestudy. Data were collected through interviews.Analysis was realized following Krueger’s model:reading, transcription, codification, constructionof themes and subthemes. Findings: An analysis ofinformants’ speech revealed four main themes: 1. Communication; 2. Social Aspect; 3. Family Aspect;4. Feelings and Emotions. Conclusion: The cell phonehas revolutionized human social practices. We givethe device importance based on the distinct toolsit offers, modifying its use and leading to negativerepercussions. Further studies and analyses shouldbe conducted in order to identify the causes of thisprocess in order to avoid transcendental changesthat might affect people’s physical, social, andemotional health.