Impact of Mobile Messaging Apps on Interpersonal Relationships in Kenya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47672/ajc.1933Keywords:
Mobile, Messaging, Apps, Interpersonal RelationshipsAbstract
Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of mobile messaging apps on interpersonal relationships in Kenya.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: The impact of mobile messaging apps on interpersonal relationships is multifaceted. On one hand, these apps have revolutionized communication by facilitating instant, convenient, and constant connection regardless of geographical distances. Individuals can now maintain regular contact with friends, family, and colleagues, enhancing their sense of closeness and intimacy. Moreover, messaging apps offer various features such as voice notes, emojis, and video calls that enrich communication experiences and enable users to express themselves more vividly. However, there are concerns about the potential negative consequences of excessive messaging app use. Research suggests that over-reliance on digital communication may lead to decreased face-to-face interaction, reduced empathy, and misunderstandings due to the absence of nonverbal cues.
Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social presence theory, social information processing theory and attachment theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the impact of mobile messaging apps on interpersonal relationships in Kenya. Investigate how the use of mobile messaging apps shapes communication patterns and styles within relationships. Advocate for the integration of digital communication literacy in educational curricula to equip individuals with the skills needed to navigate relationships in a technologically connected world.
Downloads
References
Adegbola, A., & Ogunlade, O. (2019). Religious Practices and Social Bonds: A Study in Nigeria. African Journal of Sociology, 28(1), 78–93.
Adeyemi, T., & Okonkwo, C. (2017). Cultural Diversity and Workplace Relationships in Nigeria. Journal of International Business Studies, 22(3), 120–135.
Adeyemi, T., & Okonkwo, C. (2017). Cultural Diversity and Workplace Relationships in Nigeria. Journal of International Business Studies, 22(3), 120–135.
Agyekum, K., & Amponsah, B. (2019). Traditional Belief Systems and Interpersonal Bonds in Ghana. Journal of African Studies, 32(4), 421–438.
Brown, A., Smith, J., & Johnson, M. (2017). The Impact of Digital Communication on Face-to-Face Interactions: A Longitudinal Analysis. Journal of Communication, 67(4), 524–546.
Chen, L., et al. (2018). Mobile Messaging Apps and Relationship Satisfaction. Journal of Communication, 68(2), 438–457.
García, A., & Hui, P. M. (2019). Mobile messaging and social presence: An analysis of smartphone use during face-to-face conversations. Mobile Media & Communication, 7(1), 65-84.
Garcia, A., & Martinez, J. (2023). Trust and Intimacy in Romantic Relationships: The Role of Mobile Messaging Apps. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 40(5), 1234–1256.
Hernandez, A., & Garcia, M. (2018). Traditional Gender Roles and Household Dynamics in Mexico. Gender Studies Journal, 45(3), 78–93.
Jansen, R., & Liu, Y. (2020). Cross-Cultural Comparison of Mobile Messaging Apps' Impact on Interpersonal Relationships. International Journal of Intercultural Relations, 77, 89–104.
Jones, D. R., & Brown, D. M. (2020). The impact of mobile messaging on relationship satisfaction and dyadic closeness within young adult romantic relationships. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 23(7), 468-474.
Lee, H., & Kim, S. (2019). Family Communication Patterns and Mobile Messaging Apps. Family Relations, 68(3), 567–586.
Lee, K. M. (2021). Playfulness in mobile messaging: A case study of emoji use. Mobile Media & Communication, 9(1), 26-42.
Lee, K. M. (2021). Playfulness in mobile messaging: A case study of emoji use. Mobile Media & Communication, 9(1), 26-42.
Li, Y., & Wang, L. (2019). Rural-to-Urban Migration and Long-Distance Relationships in China. Population Studies, 25(2), 189–205.
Mwangi, P., & Kariuki, W. (2018). Changing Gender Roles and Family Dynamics in Kenya. African Gender Studies, 15(2), 189–205.
Nkosi, N., & Mkhize, N. (2020). Socio-economic Disparities and Interpersonal Relationships in South Africa. Journal of Social Issues, 36(4), 421–438.
Nyirenda, D., & Banda, W. (2017). Community-Oriented Social Structures and Interpersonal Relationships: A Case Study in Malawi. Journal of African Studies, 30(4), 421–438.
Park, M., & Lee, S. (2021). Mobile Messaging Apps in the Workplace: Communication Dynamics and Recommendations. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 44(4), 789–807.
Patel, S., & Desai, R. (2018). Cultural Influences on Interpersonal Relationships: A Case Study of India. International Journal of Psychology, 42(2), 189–205.
Santos, J., & Oliveira, R. (2020). Income Inequality and Community Bonds in Brazil. Development Studies, 27(4), 421–438.
Silva, M., & Oliveira, R. (2016). Economic Instability and Family Relationships in Brazil. Journal of Economic Psychology, 55, 143–154.
Smith, A. N. (2018). The role of mobile instant messaging in the social ordering of residential care. Information, Communication & Society, 21(12), 1789-1805.
Smith, J., & Jones, R. (2017). Impact of Mobile Messaging Apps on Interpersonal Relationships Among College Students. Journal of Adolescent Research, 32(6), 123–145.
Subianto, B., & Dewi, K. (2021). Educational Disparities and Family Dynamics in Indonesia. International Journal of Sociology, 28(1), 120–135. Takahashi, H., & Yamamoto, T. (2018). Demographic Changes and Family Relationships in Japan: A Longitudinal Study. Journal of Family Studies, 24(3), 321–336.
Zhang, X., & Wang, Y. (2022). Longitudinal Effects of Mobile Messaging Apps on Adolescent Friendships. Developmental Psychology, 48(1), 234–251.
Downloads
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
License
Copyright (c) 2024 Bonface Munyao
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Authors retain copyright and grant the journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC-BY) 4.0 License that allows others to share the work with an acknowledgment of the work’s authorship and initial publication in this journal.
