Influence of New Information and Communication Technologies on Family Life

Abstract

In parallel with the increasing availability of personal computers and smartphones in the‏ 21st century, and the increasing frequency of Internet use in daily lives of members of all generations, the‏ interest of scientists in studying the influence of new information and communication technologies on‏ family life is growing significantly. Considering that there is a lack of scientific papers and research on this‏ topic in Croatia, the aim of this review paper is to elaborate current trends and research findings in this‏ field, to deepen the understanding of positive and negative influences of increased use of new information‏ and communication technologies on various aspects of contemporary families’ lives and to offer a‏ framework for future research in this area. Particular emphasis in this paper is placed on the analysis of‏ changes in family life in the area of partnership / marital relations and parenting, with a comment on‏ the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In conclusion, the need for further research and improvement of‏ professional support aimed at prevention and resolution of family problems related to new information‏ and communication technologies is highlighted.

Keywords

• internet
• new information and communication technologies
• family change
• partnership / marital relations
• parenting
• covid -19 pandemic