Should We Track Our Children?: An Exploratory Examination of Life360 and Interpersonal and Relational Well-Being

Abstract

Studies on social media have found that monitoring can be damaging for close relationships. In the context of family relationships, however, studies have recommended that parents increase their electronic supervision for their children. Theoretically, teenagers are seeking independence, so tracking them may hinder their development and/or prompt resentment. The purpose of the current study is to examine how using Life360, a mobile tracking application, relates to the quality of parent-child relationships. Quantitative data comes from 285 participants (Mean age = 20.49; SD = 2.84) who completed an online survey regarding the degree to which their parents used Life360 during high school and college, their mental well-being, and measures of the parent-child relationship. Correlation analyses revealed a positive relationship between parents using Life360 and parental involvement and connectedness. Additionally, self-esteem was negatively associated with parents’ reaching out to their children as a result of Life360. However, regression analyses revealed few relationships between Life360 behaviors, mental health, and the parent-child relationship. Implications for parents, teenagers, and family counselors will be discussed.