Repercussions of smartphone use on marital conflict

Abstract

Marital conflict, influenced by technological advancement, requires understanding the use of technology. Unresolved conflicts and
disinvestment allow the smartphone to assume a crucial role in the relationship. This qualitative study involved 20 people (10 cohabiting couples) from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, and aimed to understand the relationship between smartphones and marital conflict. The thematic analysis resulted in three themes: The role of the smartphone in the marital life cycle; The pandemic and changes in smartphone use; and the use of smartphones in marital conflict. The present study focused on the developments resulting from the third theme only. The results showed that disagreements about smartphone use may represent a denial of marital conflict or cover up other issues inherent to the stages of the marital life cycle, especially when technology is prioritized over the marital relationship. However, marital interaction through smartphones, the creation of agreements to maintain individuality, and shared use of the device may reveal constructive conflict resolution strategies.