This study investigates the factors influencing attachment to mobile phones. Attachment, initially defined as the emotional bond between a child and their caregiver (Bowlby, 1988), has been extended to inanimate objects (Belk, 1988). This research examines the relationship between mobile phone attachment and (1) individual factors (age, gender, personal values, attachment style, brand attachment) and (2) external factors (phone brand, price, and personalization). The study sample comprised 832 participants (580 women, 252 men; mean age = 29.34, SD = 14.12 years) who completed an online survey. The findings indicate that both individual characteristics and external / phone-related factors significantly influence attachment levels. In particular, insecure attachment styles and phone personalization are associated with higher levels of attachment. However, personal values, as measured by the Schwartz Value Scale, do not appear to have a significant impact. These results underscore the multidimensional nature of object attachment and highlight the need for further research into additional influencing factors.

Authors:
Jean-Baptiste Légal, University Paris Nanterre, France
Oceane Demeester, University Paris Nanterre, France
Pascale Nays, Technocentre Renault, France
David Blumenthal, AgrosParisTech, France

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Jean-Baptiste Légal is a University Professor/Principal Lecturer at University Paris Nanterre in France

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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