The aim of the study is to do qualitative research with the help of phenomenological strategy on the effect of cell phone use on the peer group relationships of early adolescents within the framework of the systems theory. The population existed of early adolescents aged between 13 and 15 years old in grades 8 and 9. Information was initially obtained through a written assignment where by the early adolescents described their cell phone use and their relationships with their peers. Thereafter three focus group discussions were held to obtain data saturation. Data was then thematically analysed and five themes with categories were identified. Findings and deductions were made regarding the cell phone as communication medium and the importance of the cell phone for the early adolescent, as well as with regard to the effect the cell phone may have on peer group relations. Lastly it is indicated that the cell phone can also be employed as a instrument of recreation within the context of the cell phone and peer group relations. It is concluded that cell phone use has an effect on peer group relations. Early adolescents find a real opportunity to exercise their social skills with their peer group through the cell phone as medium. Regarding this research done with these specific early adolescents, the study concludes that the cell phone has a positive influence on peer group relations as it creates a feeling of “belonging” amongst them. / MA (Psychology), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2014

The aim of the study is to do qualitative research with the help of phenomenological strategy on the effect of cell phone use on the peer group relationships of early adolescents within the framework of the systems theory. The population existed of early adolescents aged between 13 and 15 years old in grades 8 and 9. Information was initially obtained through a written assignment where by the early adolescents described their cell phone use and their relationships with their peers. Thereafter three focus group discussions were held to obtain data saturation. Data was then thematically analysed and five themes with categories were identified. Findings and deductions were made regarding the cell phone as communication medium and the importance of the cell phone for the early adolescent, as well as with regard to the effect the cell phone may have on peer group relations. Lastly it is indicated that the cell phone can also be employed as a instrument of recreation within the context of the cell phone and peer group relations. It is concluded that cell phone use has an effect on peer group relations. Early adolescents find a real opportunity to exercise their social skills with their peer group through the cell phone as medium. Regarding this research done with these specific early adolescents, the study concludes that the cell phone has a positive influence on peer group relations as it creates a feeling of “belonging” amongst them. / MA (Psychology), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2014