The life-transition perspective in mediatization research: Exploring lived experiences of media-related social changes through transitioning social roles

Abstract

This article introduces the life-transition perspective as a novel conceptual framework for mediatization research. By examining individuals’ media engagement during significant life transitions, this perspective illuminates the interplay between media-communicative practices and transitioning social roles. The article argues that the life-transition perspective offers methodological advantages and fosters integration between audience research and mediatization research. It enables in-depth analysis of lived experiences of media-related social change in the context of digital everyday life and provides a comprehensive concept for synthesizing existing research on the evolving role of media across diverse domains.