Control Dimensions of Media Task-Switching and Emotional Well-Being

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David E. Silva

Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, USA (Correspondence: dsilva2@kent.edu)

Jared Brickman

Carnegie, Vancouver, Washington, USA

Citation: Silva, D., & Brickman, J. (2021). Control dimensions of media task- switching and emotional well-being. Journal of Communication Technology, 4(3), 53-79. https://doi.org/10.51548/joctec-2021-017

Abstract: Frequent task-switching between communication media is ubiquitous. Recent research on the topic highlights that multiple dimensions compete to predict task performance and productivity while multitasking. However, the emotional impact of task-switching is understudied and is an important outcome for understanding communication technology use and its potential effects on people’s well-being. This research used ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to gather task-switching and emotional data in real-time through a smart phone application. The emotional effect of the task control multitasking dimensions was assessed via a structural equation model. Results show attitudes toward task-switching moderate emotional valence, but arousal increases with frequency of task-switches. Furthermore, attitudes toward task-switching do not predict frequency of task-switches, contrary to assumptions made in previous research and indicating a loss of control of task-switching behaviors.

Keywords: mobile communication, emotional well-being, digital media, multitasking