Revealing the double-edged sword : introducing the technology and consumer well-being paradox model

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McLean, Graeme and Krey, Nina and Barhorst, Jennifer Brannon (2025) Revealing the double-edged sword : introducing the technology and consumer well-being paradox model. Psychology and Marketing, 42 (1). pp. 5-20. ISSN 0742-6046 (https://doi.org/10.1002/mar.22110)

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Abstract

While discourse on technology and consumer well-being has been at the forefront of academics’ and practitioners’ agendas, the theoretical understanding of the complex interplay between technology and consumer well-being has remained tenuous. To address this gap in our understanding of technology’s influence on consumer well-being, this research provides a comprehensive literature review of recent articles published in Psychology & Marketing. Findings indicate a double-edged sword where technology has the propensity to not only foster a state of negative well-being but can also enhance consumers’ well-being. Additionally, a technology well-being paradox is uncovered whereby technology is used to manage the negative effects of technology use. Accordingly, we introduce the Technology & Consumer Well-being Paradox Model that incorporates technology’s propensity to enhance, diminish, and manage eudaimonic and hedonic consumer well-being. Furthermore, the influence of the purpose of technology use and changes to consumer well-being over time with technology use are also considered. Finally, we provide pertinent avenues for future research to further understanding on the technology and consumer well-being paradox.

ORCID iDs

McLean, Graeme ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3758-5279, Krey, Nina and Barhorst, Jennifer Brannon;
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)