Abstract
This dissertation examines the impact of mobile technology interaction on consumer wellbeing. Extant literature largely overlooks the positive versus negative implications of physical movement facilitated through mobile technology interaction. Across two essays, the present research shows two ways in which interacting with different technologies can alter the extent to which consumers perceive they are restricted versus free to move throughout their physical environment and relate to people throughout their social environment. The first essay (Chapter 2) examines the influence of device mobility on physical distance perceptions and consumer charitable giving. Seven studies reveal that when a solicitation comes via a device that is easy to move (e.g., smartphone), potential donors feel closer and donate more to faraway recipients; whereas when a solicitation comes via a device that is difficult to move (e.g., desktop), potential donors feel closer and donate more to nearby recipients. The second essay (Chapter 3) examines the influence of tracking physical behaviors through surveillance of mobile technology interaction on consumer reactance. Four studies reveal that the mere presence of technological surveillance, even in the absence of any regulation, leads to inferences of increased behavioral regulation and a need to restore freedom through reactance among vulnerable populations. This dissertation contributes to a better understanding of the conditions under which a consumer’s behavior through mobile technology interaction benefits versus harms their personal wellbeing and the wellbeing of others.