Toward a multilevel framework of multicommunicating: Insights from a systematic review

Abstract

With the rise of smartphones, social media, and various digital communication platforms, multicommunicating (MC) has become prevalent, where individuals simultaneously engage in multiple communication tasks using information and communication technologies. However, the existing research on MC is fragmented and lacks a comprehensive understanding of its implications for and consequences on individuals and groups in various work, personal, and social contexts. This study proposes a multilevel framework to address these gaps and provides insights into the dynamics of MC at different levels: individual communicators, dyadic relationships, group dynamics, and the broader communication network. Through a systematic review of MC studies published in the last two decades, we identified trends in publication characteristics and research contexts. Existing research was conducted in educational, business, and social settings. Most studies focused on individual-level mechanisms and impacts, with findings indicating that MC negatively affects task performance, learning satisfaction, and psychological engagement. Additionally, our review examined the influence of MC on dyadic outcomes, such as social evaluation and communication partner satisfaction. Based on the review, we identified gaps and proposed future research directions to enhance our understanding of MC. By adopting a multilevel perspective, this study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of MC, encompassing individual-level processes, social dynamics, and even a few emerging network effects.