Adolescents' interest in computers: the role of attitude and socioeconomic status

Abstract

This study investigated adolescents' interest in using computers, as well as academic and social activities which are associated with an interest in computers, among students in lower and middle class schools. The image that adolescents have of those who use computers and how that relates to their own interest in computers was also examined. One-hundred eighty-five students were given a list of activities and were also asked to describe “what kind of kid likes computers”. The results include the following: (a) Most adolescents are indifferent to computers. They are about as interested in them as they are in other intellectual activities. (b) There is a social class difference in computer interest. The students from lower socioeconomic schools and less exposure to computers show more interest. (c) Interest in computers is associated with an interest in intellectual activities, video games, and a lack of interest in typical adolescent activities across gender and socioeconomic status. (d) Adolescents who like computers were seen as the “smart” kids, particularly by adolescents without intellectual interests. This attitude was also found across gender and in both schools.