Date of Award

1-27-2015

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Specialization

Communication and Leadership

School or Department

School of Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Carolyn Cunningham

Second Advisor

Dr. Kristina Morehouse

Abstract

Computer mediated forms of communication are a common way to engage with other people. As technology continues to advance, it is important to understand the impact electronic forms of communication have on social behavior. Over time users have become dependent on technology and all the conveniences it brings to their lives. The goal of this study is to evaluate the ways different age groups perceive solitude through their use of technology. The study is based on Media Richness and Social Presence communication theories, as well as the social philosophies of Absent Presence and Alone Together. Absent Presence (Gergen, 2002) centers on the idea that someone is physically present, yet so consumed by electronic media they are detached from the people sharing their space. Alone Together (Turkle, 2012) focuses on the need to be constantly connected, and the struggle with balancing technology use and personal relationships. A survey addressing both quantitative and qualitative questions was distributed electronically to a convenience sample, and responses were gathered from 293 adults. Results from this study found technology does not increase the fear of being alone and age plays a very limited role in connecting technology use to feelings of loneliness. Additionally, both millennial and older generation groups find solace in the time they spend alone and look forward to carving out time to be by themselves. By expanding on the findings from this study, a wide range of opportunities for further research can be explored. Taking a deeper dive into the millennial age group to see how digital natives vary in their perceptions toward social engagement could uncover ways in which technology plays a part in cultivating or diminishing new relationships.

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