| The invention of the first cellular phone in 1973 forever changed the way people communicate, enjoy leisure time, and work. Since then, cellular phones have evolved into devices that not only allow a person to talk anywhere but also access an array of activities. Other devices, such as tablet computers and e-book readers also allow people to stay connected 24 hours per day. Most recent statistics indicate that in the United States, 91% of Americans own a cellular phone (Duggan, 2013). Out of those individuals, 55% own a smart phone, while 34% own a smart tablet (Smith, 2013; Zichuhr, 2013). Given the increase in ownership and use of smart devices in society, research within the field of psychology has focused on the impact of the devices on human relationships (Pew Internet and American Life Project, 2013). In recent years, an abundant pool of research on marital processes has attempted to investigate the relationship between evolving technology use and marital satisfaction (Stevenson, 2011; Chesley, 2006; Chesley, 2005; Leung & Wei, 2000). Using Gottman's (1998) integrative model, the current study attempted to explore the role of smart technology within the constellation of marriage. The use of smart devices was examined across the marital satisfaction measures, resulting with no statistical correlations between the variables. There are several factors that may have contributed to the results, including the methodological limitations. Furthering the research on this topic may help psychologists in the assessment and evaluation process of clients who seek marital counseling. In addition, examining the role of smart devices within the marital relationship may also aid psychologists in the treatment of marital issues perhaps related to communication, attentiveness, setting boundaries, quality of time, conflict resolution, and connectedness. |
