Article

Older age South African persons’ experiences of their needs with cell phone use

Published in: Journal of Psychology in Africa
Volume 27 , issue 3 , 2017 , pages: 260–266

DOI: 10.1080/14330237.2017.1321854

Author(s): Emmylou Lamont School of Psychosocial Behavioural Sciences, Community Psychosocial Research (COMPRES), South Africa , Werner de Klerk School of Psychosocial Behavioural Sciences, Community Psychosocial Research (COMPRES), South Africa , Lelanie Malan School of Psychosocial Behavioural Sciences, Community Psychosocial Research (COMPRES), South Africa

Keywords: older persons , mobile phones (cell phones) , intrinsic motives/needs , instrumental motives/needs , basic psychological needs , well-being

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Abstract

This study explored the needs met by cell phone use by older persons. Informants were 52 older South Africans (age range 65 to 89 years, male = 8, female = 44). The older persons completed a visual representation and semi-structured interviews on the needs met by their cell phone usage. Thematic analysis of the data revealed the following needs to be met by their cell phone usage: personal safety, sense of control, managing daily routine, and staying connected with loved ones. Findings are consistent with the propositions of the basic psychological needs theory (BPNT) regarding competence, autonomy, and personal well-being.

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