A generational comparison of social networking site use: the influence of age and social identity.
An online survey (N=256) compared social networking site (SNS) use among younger (millennial: 18-29) and older (baby-boomer: 41-64) subscribers focusing on the influence of collective self-esteem and group identity on motives for SNS use. Younger participants reported higher positive collective self-esteem, social networking site use for peer communication, and social compensation. Regardless of age, participants reporting high collective self-esteem and group identity were more likely to use social networking sites for peer communication and social identity gratifications, while those reporting negative collective self-esteem were more likely to use social networking sites for social compensation. The theoretical implications of the strong relationship between social identity gratifications and social compensation are discussed.
School of Journalism & Media Studies, College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182-4561, USA. valeriebarker@valeriebarker.net
Valerie
V
Barker
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000523:psychology*; D003625:Data Collection; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016901:Intergenerational Relations; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008960:Models, Psychological; D012649:Self Concept; D012933:Social Identification; D060756:Social Networking; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult