RELEVANCE OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS IN DETERMINING READING HABITS USING UTAUT: A THEORETICAL PROPOSITION

Abstract

Reading is an essential life skill that keeps students informed and updated. However, reading habits are cultivated only when reading is seen as more than a means to pass exams. In the 21st century, reading patterns have changed due to various factors, including demographics. This study examines the relevance of socioeconomic factors in determining reading habits, using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) as its theoretical framework. Adopting a narrative review approach, the study analyzes textual materials from reputable databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to provide a holistic understanding of the topic. The findings reveal a significant disparity between developing and developed countries, particularly in the acceptance and use of technology that predicts reading habits. The study concludes that the UTAUT model's failure to include socioeconomic factors as a mediating variable contributes to the reading habit gap between these countries. Therefore, the study recommends that socioeconomic factors be incorporated into the UTAUT model as mediating variables to help address this disparity in developing countries.

DOI: https://doie.org/10.10318/SER.2025167848