OIDA International Journal of Sustainable Development
Open-access peer-reviewed journal
https://doi.org/10.64211/oidaijsd190621
Digitalization and Family Dynamics: A Comparative Review of Intergenerational Experiences in Urban Sri Lanka
Perera M A N R1 ,2, Silva S N 3
1 Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.
2 International Center for Multidisciplinary Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.
3 Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.
Corresponding author: rasanjalee@sjp.ac.lk
Volume 19, Issue 06, Pg. 269-280, 2026.
Abstract: Digitalisation has changed family structures, communication styles, and intergenerational connections, which have become a defining factor in modern social life. Digitalisation creates both opportunities and conflicts in families in places like Sri Lanka, as traditional family values are challenged by the rapid advancement of technology. This paper explains how to critically analyse the body of research on the impact of digitalisation on the family institution, with a focus on generational differences among urban Sri Lankan families.
The method used for this study is a secondary data collection method, drawing on academic literature, policy documents, and empirical studies at international, regional, and Sri Lankan levels. The analysis is guided by Modernization Theory, Network Society Theory (Castells), and Digital Divide Theory to examine digitalisation, changing family structures, and intergenerational differences in digital access, adoption, and social interaction.
According to the findings, digitalisation has changed family communication with a connection and a decrease in in-person encounters at the same time. While older generations struggle with adaptation, creating intergenerational gaps, younger generations, as digital natives, exhibit greater digital knowledge and dependence on online platforms. Digital tools build up education, employment, and long-distance family relationships in metropolitan Sri Lanka; however, they also go far beyond authority, cultural values, and family unity. Family experiences are further hindered by gaps in digital literacy, gender inequality, and unequal access.
The literature review leads to the conclusion that digitalisation creates both a divide while changing family life in intricate and paradoxical ways, and a connection. To reduce digital divides and foster family unity in Sri Lanka’s changing digital society, Policymakers and educators should encourage inclusive digital literacy programs and intergenerational learning models.
Keywords: Digitalization, Digital Divide, Family Institution, Intergenerational Relationships, Urban Sri Lanka
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