An Exploration of Intrusive Mobile Phone Behavior

Abstract

Technological advances in mobile phones, changing tariffs, and cultural and individual differences have influenced the explosion in communication between individuals through online applications with a mobile phone. Positive benefits include the ability to make contact anytime, anywhere. However, there are also drawbacks. Instant, remote access has opened the door to intrusive behaviors (also known as cyberstalking) by mobile devices. This article provides a brief overview of cyberstalking laws alongside a review of empirical studies exploring cyberstalking, drawing on the authors' own previous study and others in the field. Intrusive behavior is prevalent to the point of becoming a social norm despite recipients reporting being distressed; there is still a higher level of acceptance of online harassment than there is for offline harassment. Future research and interventions should focus on exploring the social norms of this behavior and raising awareness of the effect of unwanted contact by online, often mobile devices.