Contextualizing the Gender Gap in Digital Media Use and Confidence With Technology

• In Event: Black Women and Girls in the Education Pipeline

Abstract

This study surveyed 1041 parent-teen dyads to examine African American teens’ experiences with digital media. Responses indicated that both teens and parents were confident with technology. While teens have a lot of experience with creative digital activities, they showed far less interest or experience with technical activities, especially among girls. Further analysis indicated that, regardless of parents’ gender, teen boys were encouraged to explore online, whereas teen girls were more likely to have their technology use limited. Regression analyses indicated that teens’ gender and confidence as well as parent confidence were significant predictors in their experiences with creative activities, but only teen gender and confidence predicted experience with technical activities. Implications will be discussed.

Authors

• Kathryn McCarthy, Arizona State University

• Chun Tao, Arizona State University - Tempe

• Kimberly A. Scott, Arizona State University