Internet, Social Media, and Mobile Device Addiction Effects on a Workplace

Introduction

The purpose of this literature review was to address an existing gap in the literature in understanding how addiction in the form of internet, social media and mobile device addiction and dependency positively and negatively affects a workplace. The objective of the research was to review over 70 publications on the topics of internet addiction, social media addiction, mobile device dependency, a lack of leading consensus, benefits in the workplace, and challenges in the workplace to include industrial espionage. The internet and social networks have become a way of life for millions of people around the world who regularly access these networks through a variety of devices (Kuss & Griffiths, 2017). Mobile devices such as cell phones enable people to have immediate online access and experience instant gratifications obtained from their social media (Shepard, Parker & Steiner, 2015). Online social networking sites (SNSs), where individuals enjoy connecting with others, have gained popularity in the last decade (Kuss & Griffiths, 2017). In 2016, there were 2.34 billion social network users worldwide (Statista Facts on Social Networks, 2017). Users’ social network activities appear to be eclectic and constantly changing, ranging from traditional sites such as Facebook® to more socially based online gaming platforms and dating platforms. These activities allow users to connect to one another based on shared interests, using on-the-go technologies such as tablets and smartphones that are particularly popular devices for accessing social networks. Millennials, the generational cohort born between 1982 and 2000 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2015), are on the internet or on their cell phone for seven and a half hours daily (Twenge, 2013). As of 2010, Americans spend 23% of their internet time on social networking sites and 21% check Facebook® over five times daily. Approximately 30% of college students use Facebook® to meet new friends. Given the massive number of social media users and the frequency of use, the average social media user accesses their networking sites throughout the day, there is no wonder that researchers have begun to discover a number of potential causes for concern (Wallace, 2014).

In some workplaces, employers restrict or prohibit the use of personal mobile phones and restrict access to SNSs through company-owned networks. This occurs to protect the security of the enterprise, including intellectual property, personal identifying information of customers, business sensitive information, and classified matter. Restrictions may take place to prevent distractions and improve human performance, helping to achieve quality, safety, and productivity performance objectives. The increased reliance of the workforce on SNSs and mobile devices, juxtaposed with employers needs to protect assets and maintain human performance, creates a 21^st century conflict. The literature review conducted addresses the following research questions:

• RQ1: What is the extent of conflicting interest related to the cause of the internet, social media, and mobile devices in the workplace?

• RQ2: What is the generational extent of security policies and procedures considering mobile technology and SNSs?