Second Screen: a Qualitative Exploration of New Television Multitasking Behaviors

As watching television with a second device in hand becomes more common, theoretically-grounded research can provide a deeper understanding of new behaviors. The new way of interacting with media discussed in this paper is known as second screen. It involves a person using a second screen, such as a tablet or smartphone device, simultaneously while watching television content that may be displayed on a television or any other type of viewing device (i.e. laptop) considered the first screen. A brief overview includes further definition of this new form of audience engagement. Data is presented that illustrates how rapidly the behavior is becoming the norm. A literature review is included that highlights relevant multitasking, distraction and sensation seeking studies. This section of the paper brings to light that there are gaps in understanding these new behaviors; therefore, explorations through the lens of the uses and gratifications theory provide benefits to future investigators of the topic. As a result, a study of 35 participants is discussed that provides qualitative data in order to provide a deeper understanding of why audiences are choosing to second screen