Understanding Technology Adoption in the Household Context: a Comparison of seven Theoretical Models

We first reviewed seven theoretical models that have been used to explain technology adoption and use, primarily in the workplace. Then, we examined the boundary conditions of prior models of technology adoption when applied to the household context using empirical data from 1,247 U.S. households. Those households that had adopted household technologies were surveyed regarding their use behavior. Non-adopters were surveyed regarding their purchase intentions. This allowed us to identify the most influential factors impacting a household’s decision to purchase and use technologies. Our results showed that the model of adoption of technology in the household (MATH) provided the richest explanation of technology adoption and use in the household.