Digital detox: A theoretical framework and future research directions for Information Systems

Abstract

Digital detox is gaining increasing attention as a method of self-control to address the adverse effects of prolonged leisure information and communication technology (ICT) use. However, the existing literature on this matter uses inconsistent terminology and reports mixed empirical results due to different understandings of what constitutes a digital detox strategy. Based on a theoretical review of existing literature, this study (1) introduces a consolidated definition of digital detox that integrates elements of synonymous concepts, (2) develops a theoretical framework for digital detox strategies, and (3) proposes a research agenda based on this framework. These contributions allow researchers to derive digital detox interventions systematically, make them comparable across studies, and thereby advance this important line of scholarly inquiry. Practitioners may build on our findings to derive individual and organizational measures such as routines and policies that prevent negative side effects of leisure ICT in both work and private life domains.