The Perception of Mothers on Using Smartphones as a Means for Parental Control in Three-Year Old Children

Abstract

Objectives: The study aimed to clarify the perception of using smartphones as a means for parental control in three-year old children among mothers.

Methods: Participants were ten mothers whose children were aged between three and four years. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted, wherein the participants were asked about their experience and thoughts on ‘using smartphones as a means for parental control in three-year old children’. Data was analysed using inductive and qualitative methods.

Results: The following five categories were identified: ‘A smartphone seizes growth power of children and my parental role’, ‘A smartphone helps me by bringing a sense of reassurance’, ‘The convenience of a smartphone attracts me’, ‘I am responsible for controlling smartphones access as a parent’, and ‘Even when I can rely on a smartphone, I should discover the meaning of parenting my children by myself’.

Discussion: A smartphone is a tool that can adversely affect a mother’s parenting, or can effectively help her to control her child, and its convenience can attract mothers. It is important that mothers use a smartphone in a controlled manner based on their willingness as a parent.