These indicators represent a considerable limitation in terms of the operationalization of the temporal structure of
media use, as it only captures the recurrence in the temporal structure of social interactions. Nevertheless, Licoppe
(2004) suggested that the frequency of media use appears as one of the most relevant dimensions that distinguishes interpersonal
communication via mobile phones. Similar suggestions are to be found in other works that focus also on other ICTs
(e.g., Boase, 2008; Boase et al., 2006; Hampton et al., 2009). In addition, such operationalization has been elaborated upon
and suggested in other large-scale ego-centered network surveys that measured the use of various media (including mobile
and landline phones) and ego-alter communication (e.g., Hlebec et al., 2006); it was also assessed as the most valid self-report
measure when asking respondents to estimate their use of mobile phones for personal communication