FROM DIGITAL DEPENDENCE TO DIGITAL FREEDOM: A NARRATIVE STUDY OF WORKING COUPLES' DIGITAL DETOX JOURNEY

Abstract

Digital technologies significantly influence individuals' behavior, personal lives, and professional activities. Consequently, digital detox practices and mindfulness are emerging as essential strategies for restoring mental well-being in today's technology-driven environment. The present study explores the digital detox experiences of working couples in Lahore. Grounded in the interpretive paradigm, this study aims to develop an in-depth understanding of the subjective experiences of married working couples. A total of 20 working couples were recruited through purposive sampling. Thematic analysis was employed using an interview guide to analyze data collected from in-depth interviews. The findings suggest that working couples recognize the critical need for brief breaks from digital engagement as a form of digital detox to enhance their personal well-being. After implementing digital detox practices, participants reported improvements in the quality of their marital and personal lives. However, they also encountered several challenges, including concerns about work-life productivity, initial temptations to re-engage with digital devices, and a lack of support. This study underscores the importance of digital detox in improving well-being and highlights the barriers that working couples face in maintaining such practices.