Jealousy and Digital Distraction in Romantic Dyads: A Dyadic Analysis of Technology’s Paradox of Connection

This study examined how perceived technology benefits relate to romantic jealousy and technology-related distraction in couples. Eighteen heterosexual dyads (N = 36) completed an online survey assessing technology benefits, jealousy, and two distraction outcomes: self-distraction (feeling personally distracted) and partner-driven distraction (perceiving one’s partner as distracted). Analyses included individual-level regression models and dyadic Actor–Partner Interdependence Models (APIM), adjusting for age, gender, relationship status, and relationship length. Across models, jealousy showed the most consistent association with self-distraction. Technology benefits showed weaker direct effects once jealousy entered the models. For partner-driven distraction, actor and partner jealousy effects were positive but estimated with wider uncertainty. Mediation tests supported an indirect pathway from technology benefits to distraction through jealousy, with clearer effects for self-distraction than partner-driven distraction. Findings support a relational meaning perspective on technology use and highlight jealousy as a clinically relevant target when partners experience technology-related conflict. Clinical implications include assessing jealousy cues, clarifying digital boundaries, and supporting intentional technology routines.