Cross-cultural patterns in mobile phone use : public space and reachability in Sweden, the US, and Japan

Contemporary mobile phone technology is becoming increasingly similar around the world. However, cultural differences between countries may also shape mobile phone practices. This study examines a group of variables with respect to mobile phone use among university students in Sweden, the United States, and Japan. Key cultural issues include attitudes towards quiet in public space, personal use of public space, and tolerance of self-expression. Measures include the appropriateness of using mobiles in various social contexts, and judgments of what respondents like most and like least about having a mobile phone. Analysis revealed a number of culturally- associated differences, as well as a shared conflicting attitude towards the advantages and disadvantages of reachability by mobile phone.