ABSTRACT

Over the past decades, technological advancements have significantly simplified various aspects of human life. However, the contemporary and unprecedented acceleration in technological development, particularly with the rise of digital communication tools, has dramatically transformed the global landscape. This transformation has led to a shift from a once-divergent world to a more interconnected global village, thereby making communication more accessible and effortless. Nevertheless, every technological innovation inevitably introduces new cultural dynamics into society. Digital communication has engendered a new global culture. While the benefits of this cultural shift are evident, its adverse effects are equally profound. One of the most significant negative impacts is observed within the family unit, where the lack of physical (faceto-face) interaction strains familial bonds. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced in African family relationships, where physical interaction and communalism are integral to familial bonding and socialization. This paper, therefore, seeks to address these central questions: how has technology impacted on African families over the years? And how has digital communication influenced African families and their relationships? Employing a method of critical analysis, this study explores the effects of technology and digital communication on African family relationships over the years. The findings reveal that digital communication tools have had enormous impacts on family socialization, bonding, and relationships. Ultimately, the paper advocates for a balanced approach to the use of digital communication tools to preserve the close-knit relationships that have traditionally characterized African families.