Television Use In Guest Houses: A Sociological And Media Study Of Selected Guest Houses In Accra

Abstract

This study examined how guests use in-room television in two guest houses in Accra and the meanings they attach to this practice. While television use is well studied in homes, little is known about its role in temporary, semi-private spaces such as guest houses. Guided by Uses and Gratifications Theory and Symbolic Interactionism, the study explored why guests turn on the television, what needs it meets, and how it shapes comfort and satisfaction. A qualitative approach was used, involving semi-structured interviews and non-participant observation at Golden Apple and Kikwor guest houses. Eighteen people participated, including twelve guests and six staff members, providing rich insights into individual viewing habits and institutional perspectives that often go unnoticed. Thematic analysis revealed clear patterns in how television was used. Guests relied on television for comfort, turning it on immediately to make the room feel familiar, welcoming, and less lonely. It served as background sound and a privacy buffer, reducing silence and masking noise from outside or nearby rooms. Many viewed it as a marker of quality, often checking it first when entering the room to judge the standard and perceived value of the space. Gendered viewing patterns were observed. Men preferred news, sports, and current affairs, while women often chose movies, telenovelas, and lifestyle programs. Some guests also reported using television to manage stress, pass time while waiting, and create a sense of routine during their stay, especially during periods of extended lodging. Overall, television played both functional and symbolic roles that shaped guests’ experiences and their judgment of service quality. The study recommends regular maintenance, upgrades to smart TVs, and a balanced mix of channels to meet diverse preferences. It also highlights the need for more research on media use in temporary accommodation, including comparisons with hotels, hostels, and Airbnb stays to understand how broader social and technological contexts influence viewing behavior.