The Influence of Technology on Family Communication Patterns in Port Harcourt Metropolis

This study examined the influence of technology on family communication in Port Harcourt metropolis. The objectives of the study were to; examine the prevalent rate of various communication technologies within families in Port Harcourt; analyze how the adoption of technology has influenced family communication patterns in Port Harcourt; investigate the perceived benefits and challenges associated with technology-mediated family communication and explore strategies for harnessing technology to enhance family bonds in the Port Harcourt metropolis. The research design used in this study was a survey design while the population consisted of 3,637,000 a 4.5% increase from 2023 in Port Harcourt. The sample size for this study is 384. The sampling technique used for was the cluster sampling technique. The research instrument used in this research is the questionnaire. Total copies of questionnaires administered to correspondents were 384 while 370 copies were retrieved for data analysis. The data collected were interpreted using descriptive technique. The study highlights the significant role that communication technologies play in family communication patterns within the Port Harcourt metropolis. The prevalence of smartphones and social media platforms, particularly WhatsApp. has made it easier for families to stay connected despite physical distance. Overall, technology has become an integral part of daily family communication routines in Port Harcourt, offering both benefits and challenges but ultimately contributing to more efficient and effective family connections. It was recommended that families should be encouraged to strike a balance between digital and face-to-face communication. While smartphones and video calling apps are useful, families should prioritize in-person interactions to maintain personal connections and emotiona bonds.