Ethan's blog

  Sources: Ungvarsky, J. (2020). Uses and gratifications theory. EBSCO Research Starters. https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/communication-and-mass-media/uses-and-gratifications-theory Communication Theory. (2018, December 11). Uses and gratification theory. Communication Theory https://www.communicationtheory.org/uses-and-gratification-theory/ Vinney, C. (2025, November 13). Uses and gratifications theory in media psychology . Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-uses-and-gratifications-theory-in-media-psychology-5217572

 Reflecting on my screen time   The way I use media plays an integral role in my everyday life, influencing how I socialize, relax, and stay up to date. To better understand my own media habits, I used my phone’s screen time tool to track my screen time for a week. According to the data, I spend an average of 4 hours and 37 minutes per day using media on my phone, which adds up to approximately 32 hours per week. Tracking this information allowed me to reflect not only on how much media I consume, but also the way I use media.   On Wednesday, the largest portion of my screen time was spent on social media, totaling about 1 hour and 45 minutes per day. My go to apps like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat are my primary means to stay connected with friends, keep up with trends, and a way to stay entertained when bored. I also spend roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes on streaming platforms like Hulu and Amazon prime video. This time is usually right before bed to relax af...