Social Networking Sites Platforms Research Articles

Social Networking Sites (SNS) for Japanese Language Learning

Social Networking Sites (SNS) have become an integral part of modern society, influencing various aspects of life, including education. SNS facilitates interactive, collaborative, and reflective learning experiences in language learning. This study aims to evaluate the use of SNS in enhancing learning inside and outside Japanese language classrooms. The research was conducted using a qualitative approach with a survey method, utilizing a questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. Quantitative and qualitative data collected from 85 Japanese Language Education Study Program students were analyzed and presented narratively. The data were examined through the lens of SNS use in foreign language learning and its impact on language acquisition. The results reveal that most students frequently use SNS platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter for learning Japanese, both for classroom materials and independent study. Additionally, students reported that SNS use has improved their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in Japanese. Moreover, SNS has been identified as a motivational tool, fostering students’ confidence in using the language orally and in writing. These findings provide valuable insights for future research on using SNS as a learning medium in Japanese language education.

Self-objectification of bodies in social networking sites: Mental and behavioral health problems of young female adults

Social network sites (SNS) are becoming a popular means of “digital leisure” among young adults. Several problematic consequences of extensive SNS use have been reported including objectifying bodies on SNS. Thus, in this study, we aimed to understand the specific pathway between young female adults’ SNS use and mental and behavioral problems using the objectification theory framework. We conducted structural equation modeling of data from 507 Korean female undergraduates to elucidate the relationships between SNS use and self-esteem, depression, abnormal eating, and exercise dependence, and the mediation effects of body surveillance and body shame. A significant direct relationship between SNS use and problematic consequences was found only between SNS use and exercise dependence. Mediation effects of body surveillance and body shame were confirmed in all four relationships. In this study, the researchers expand the objectification theory’s applicability to SNS platforms and identify a potential mechanism of consequent adverse outcomes, providing useful empirical evidence for preventive educational measures.

Electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) on social networking sites (SNS): Roles of information credibility in shaping online purchase intention

Electronic word of mouth (eWOM) on social networking sites (SNS) has become crucial in shaping online consumers’ purchase intentions, reflecting the growing reliance on rich nature of user-generated content and recommendations shared on these platforms. This study aims to investigate the intricate relationships among different factors of eWOM information, including information credibility, information usefulness, information adoption, attitude towards information, and their impacts on online purchase intention. This study draws upon the Information Adoption Model (IAM) and the Information Acceptance Model (IACM) foundation theory which reveal the steps individuals take in adopting new information, and focuses on how perceptions and attitudes towards information shape acceptance. The study used a quantitative approach, utilizing a structured questionnaire to collect data from 337 Vietnamese individuals actively engaged in eWOM activities on various SNS platforms. Statistical analysis was conducted using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings show that information credibility significantly influences both information usefulness and adoption. Interestingly, while information usefulness shapes user attitudes, it does not directly impact online purchase intention. Similarly, a positive attitude toward eWOM does not necessarily lead to information adoption. This suggests that consumers may hold favorable views of eWOM content without actively adopting it. Information adoption emerges as a critical determinant of online purchase intention, emphasizing the importance of promoting user engagement and trust in eWOM information. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of online consumer behavior and provide valuable guidance for stakeholders seeking to leverage eWOM effectively in digital marketing.

An investigation on the extent of utilisation of social networking sites in crisis management of public secondary Schools in Nairobi County, Westlands Sub-County

This research study investigated the role of Social Networking Sites (SNS) in communication during crises in public secondary educational institutions within Westlands Sub County – Nairobi County. There has been increased usage of communication tools such as the Social Networking Sites (SNS). SNS are virtual communities where users create profiles to interact with people on shared interests. Every organisation encounter crises at some point, and public schools are no exception. SNS has been used to either propagate or crisis. The research was done using a mixed method, incorporating qualitative and quantitative data. Data was collected from principals, teachers, parents, union and MOE officials within the Nairobi County, Westlands Sub-County using questionnaires and interviews. Data was presented descriptively through percentages, figures and tables. The results showed (78%) of the respondents identified SNS as communication platforms used in crisis management in schools. The results depicted high usage of platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook. In addition, (71%) of parents preferred venting their grievances on SNSs before addressing them with the school. However, they were reluctant to communicate with the administration on the same platforms. About (15%) of administrators used the SNS platforms for communication during a crisis. The study findings will be useful to managers of public schools and other stakeholder of education in Kenya.

Social Networking Sites for Success: A UTAUT-Based Investigation into University Employee Performance Enhancement

Social networking sites (SNS) have the potential to improve employee performance among university employees in Malaysia. This study delves into the potential of SNS as a means for enhancing employee performance, guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Leveraging targeted advertisements to augment performance, the research analyzes a sample of 299 university employee participants in Malaysia through a convenience sampling approach, employing SmartPLS analysis to explore the intricate relationships among technology adoption, advertisement effectiveness, and employee performance. The study reveals the significant impact of UTAUT constructs on technology acceptance and highlights the substantial influence of strategically placed advertisements on SNS engagement. The findings underscore the dynamic interplay between technological acceptance, advertisement efficacy, and enhanced employee performance. The implications of this research are noteworthy, offering organizations actionable insights for leveraging SNS platforms and tailored advertisements to optimize workforce productivity and elevate overall performance outcomes. This study contributes to the understanding of how SNS technology adoption among university employees can be a potent tool in shaping organizational success through improved employee performance.

College Students’ Utilization of Social Networking Sites

The use of Social Networking Sites (SNS) has grown in popularity in recent years, notably for college students' study and communication. This article examines college students' experiences with SNS and the strategies they employ to strengthen sociability and learning activities receiving assistance through social media platforms such as Facebook, TIKTOK, Messenger, YouTube, and WhatsApp. The qualitative study was established on primary data gathered from a semi-structured face-to-face interview with twenty college students from two urban colleges who reported the multiple strategies in learning and communicative activities and experiences received from SNS. The randomly sampled data were transcribed and thematically analysed.The results of the qualitative study showed that despite some limitations, college students use SNS for social and academic purposes. Unpleasant experiences like restlessness, low self-esteem, anxiety, physical threats, cyberbullying, online harassment, and prejudice were also noted by the participants. This study examined encouraging signs of interacting with others, sharing, and working together to learn, and building self-efficacy to use technology competently and the impact of social media on their communication and academic activities was recognized. However, SNS dependence appears to be growing and putting students' academic, social, and physical wellbeing at threat. SNS platforms have been suggested as a community center for college students. This study serves as a foundation for further investigation into the effects of social media on the welfare of high school and college students.

Social Networking Site Usage of Middle-Aged and Older Deaf Adults.

Social networking sites (SNS) have become increasingly popular in modern society; however, there is insufficient research into the impacts of SNS use on middle-aged and older Deaf and hard-of-hearing (D/HH) individuals. D/HH SNS users belonging to the Baby Boomer generation or Generation X (born 1946-1980) were recruited for this study. A mixed-methods approach was utilized, with a survey (n = 32) and interviews (n = 3), to examine primary reasons for use, perceived accessibility of interactions, the relationship between SNS use and life satisfaction, and the impacts of SNS use on this population. SNS platforms were found to be primarily used for social interaction, information seeking, and entertainment purposes. This study further showed that SNS interactions with hearing individuals were significantly more accessible than in-person interactions. The thematic analysis of the qualitative data revealed four key themes: exposure and representation, accessibility and social connection, privacy, and ideological polarization. The overall feelings towards these platforms were positive. SNS platforms allowed for increased accessibility through reducing communication barriers. Additionally, as SNS platforms have become increasingly prevalent, participants noted increased representation of the Deaf community within movies and television. This preliminary information sets important groundwork for future research, which can be used to increase the positive impacts for other D/HH individuals.

Intensity of SNS Use as a Predictor of Online Social Capital and the Moderating Role of SNS Platforms: An Empirical Study Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling

This study firstly aims to understand how social networking site usage results in online social capital formation, considering two different types of social networking sites (SNS)—LinkedIn and Facebook. It further aims to investigate if the process varies among different social networking sites or remains uniform. This study also validates two prominent scales, namely the Facebook Intensity Scale (FIS) and the Internet Social Capital Scale (ISCS). A structured questionnaire was administered through various social media platforms resulting in a total of 329 valid responses (167 LinkedIn users and 162 Facebook users). Applying the partial least squares method of structural equation modelling, it was found that social networking site use results in the formation of both online-bonding and online-bridging social capital for both types of SNS. Further, moderation analysis results show that the type of SNS platform does not affect the relationship between SNS intensity and online social capital. This implies that users’ social capitals are dependent on how they use an SNS. These findings have both practical and academic implications. They provide new insights into the usage, intensity, and online social capital that should be beneficial for commercial purposes. In terms of academic contribution, this research contributes to the scarce studies that have considered SNSs other than Facebook and also compared two SNSs. It further confirms the social capital theory in the field of online networking.

THE MALAYSIAN JOB MARKET: EXPLORING SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES (SNSS) AS AN ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION METHOD BETWEEN EMPLOYERS AND JOB SEEKERS

Interpersonal communication refers to the exchange of information, ideas, and feelings between two or more individuals. It is propounded as an essential component of human life; however, rapid technological advances have been changing the nature of interpersonal communication. As a result, the use of technology-oriented mediums like social networking sites (SNSs) has gained a prominent role in communication, particularly in the recruitment process. This subsequently alters the way employers and job seekers communicate with one another, which sparks the interest of researchers to further investigate the phenomenon. As an effort to contribute to the discussion, this paper reports an empirical study that investigated the use of SNSs in the communication between employers and job seekers. The objective is to understand the conceptualization of SNSs between employers and job seekers, the communication activities that occurred, the antecedents of choosing job advertisements from the job seekers’ perspective, and the consequences of using SNS platforms. This was achieved by adopting the Users and Gratification Theory as the underlying principle of the investigation. Purposive sampling was used to select 19 informants from various states in Malaysia. In-depth interviews were conducted to elicit data from these informants and it was later evaluated and combined in a thematic data analysis using the NVivo 12 software. The findings showed that the concept of quality communication comprises six (6) categories, namely data quality, reliability, matching and bridging, job security, opportunities for advancement, and transparency.

SNS use reduction: a two-facet privacy concern perspective

PurposeWhile social networking sites (SNS) have many positive aspects, they can have several adverse outcomes, among which privacy violations are a vital concern. The authors first posit that concerns regarding privacy violations can drive attempts to reduce SNS use. Next, the authors note that these violations can have two sources: peers and the social media provider. Thus, there is a need to understand how this complex system of privacy concerns affects use reduction decisions. To do so, this paper aims to examine the separate and joint roles of institutional and peer privacy concerns in driving SNS use reduction.Design/methodology/approachBased on privacy calculus theory, the authors propose a theoretical model to explain SNS use reduction, with institutional and peer privacy concerns as independent variables. The authors empirically examine the research model using a sample of 258 SNS users.FindingsThis study reveals that institutional and peer privacy concerns independently increase one's intention to reduce SNS use and that institutional privacy concern strengthen the relation between peer privacy concern and the intention to reduce SNS use.Originality/valueResearch thus far has not examined how the two facets of privacy work in tandem to affect 'users' decisions to change their behaviors on SNS platforms. Considering the unique and joint effect of these facets can thus provide a more precise and realistic perspective. This paper informs theories and models of privacy and online user behavior change.

The influence of social media affordances on drug dealer posting behavior across multiple social networking sites (SNS)

Social media has been documented as widely used for initiating online sales of illicit drugs such as opioids. However, not much is known about how affordances of social networking sites (SNS) influence how dealers advertise their supplies. To explore this topic, social media posts across 5 online platforms (Google Groups, Instagram, Twitter, Reddit, and Tumblr) were collected during 2020–2021. Biterm topic modeling (BTM) was used to identify signal posts specifically associated with the illegal online sale of opioids from drug selling social media accounts. Posts were analyzed by conducting a word count for drug names or slang terms associated with 5 categories: Opioids, Non-Opioid Prescription Controlled Drugs (e.g., Xanax, Valium), Other Illicit Drugs (e.g., Meth, Cocaine), Synthetic Opioids (Fentanyl), and Synthetic Marijuana. Number of mentions per post were calculated for each drug category and compared across platforms. Identifiers (e.g., publicly available email address) associated with posts were used to track dealers across different user accounts. Platforms with affordances for longer messages (e.g., Tumblr) had higher concentrations of drug mentions per post and higher variety of drug type mentions compared to SNS platforms Instagram and Twitter. Google Groups had the most drug mentions per post across all 5 categories. Additionally, each identifier was associated with multiple user accounts on a given platform. These results indicate that affordances of anonymity and message length may influence how drug dealers advertise their services on different platforms. Public health implications and strategies to counteract drug dealers and illicit drug diversion via SNS are also discussed.

Sustaining Formal and Informal English Language Learning through Social Networking Sites (SNS): A Systematic Review (2018–2022)

There has been a gradual shift over the years towards the use of social networking sites (SNS) in formal and informal English language learning which was accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Though there is an abundance of articles dedicated to probing into the in-depth use of SNS in English language learning, a clear correlation between the formal and informal application of SNS in English language learning is still scarce. Therefore, this systematic review aims to exhaustively analyse the recent findings regarding the integration of SNS in English language learning in both formal and informal learning contexts. Two databases were employed, which are the Web of Science (WoS) and Educational Resources Information Centre (ERIC) and thirty articles were extracted for further review. These articles were selectively restricted to a five-year (2018–2022) range and have been screened for any contradiction against the research objectives. As an overview, SNS is favoured for different kinds of applications in teaching and learning purposes due to observed improvements in overall language skills, social interactions, motivation and flexibility. It is proposed for future researchers to focus on a specific target group as well as specific SNS platforms which could help the researchers to minimize discrepancies.

Social Networking Site Usage, Intensity and Online Social Capital

The social networking plays an important role on the internet in all spheres of activities including technology-assisted learning (TAL). Further the role of online social capital built upon social networking sites (SNS) adds significant value to the TAL. This study aims to compare the users’ profile, behavior and online social capital in two contrasting SNS, namely LinkedIn and Facebook. It also discusses possible implications of online social capital on TAL. A total number of 329 valid responses were received from LinkedIn and Facebook users. The results based on statistical analysis show that on demographic factor, age is significantly different in the two SNS platforms. In terms of experience, network size and daily usage, no significant difference was observed. The comparison of the intensity of SNS usage and online-bonding social capital show that they differ significantly LinkedIn and Facebook. However, for online-bridging social capital, no significant difference was observed. The results throw new insights and extend the SNS research by adding an important comparative study. It also has significant implications for educational institutions, businesses and SNS.

Do Facebook and Instagram differ in their influence on life satisfaction? A study of college men and women in South Korea

While a number of previous studies examined the impacts of social networking sites (SNSs) on young people’s well-being, they usually focused on a single platform without considering the increasing use of multiple social media platforms. In addition, only a few studies have explored gender differences, and empirical evidence outside Western culture is still lacking. To this end, the present study explores how two different types of use (i.e., active vs. passive) of the two most popular SNS (social network sites) platforms (i.e., Facebook and Instagram) are related to college men’s and women’s life satisfaction via social support and social comparison in South Korea. Path analyses conducted using data from a nationwide online survey of Korean college students (N = 360) revealed that active use contributes to life satisfaction via perceived social support on SNSs, while passive use decreases life satisfaction via negative social comparison on SNSs. Both active Facebook and Instagram use are related to perceived social support, while negative social comparison tends to be related only to passive Instagram use. Gender differences were not observed in the hypothesized relationships except for those involving the control variables (i.e., the amount of overall SNS use and the number of SNS platforms used). The results suggest that the influences of SNS use on subjective well-being depend on the types of SNS use and the nature of the platforms. The practical implications for social media literacy education are discussed.

THE QUALITY OF SURVEY SCALES FOR MEASURING INFORMATION PRIVACY CONCERNS ON SOCIAL NETWORK SITES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Information privacy concerns (IPCs) play an important role in user behavior on social network sites (SNSs). They are associated with self-disclosure behavior, enjoyment, and, perhaps most importantly, a user’s intention and ability to form and sustain social ties on SNSs. While conceptual integration of different approaches to studying IPCs has already been pursued, prior research has pointed to potential problems with respect to the survey measurements of IPCs. More specifically, a plethora of self-assessment scales have been developed but the differences among them have not yet been systematically elaborated, and this is further complicated by many methodologically questionable adaptations of existing IPC survey scales to ever-emerging online contexts and SNS platforms. Accordingly, this study comprises a systematic literature review based on the COSMIN methodology to comprehensively examine the quality of survey scales used for measuring IPCs among SNS users. The results have unveiled significant variety with 35 uni- or multidimensional survey scales used in 71 articles published since 2009. Many of the scales are of questionable quality in terms of structural validity, and only a few of the studies tested them for measurement invariance. Nevertheless, we identified some scales that are promising candidates for future use, although further testing and potential improvements are needed. Our findings could also act as the foundation for a unified measurement approach to IPCs that could be used across different SNSs platforms.

Disentangling Associations Between Frequency of Specific Social Networking Site Platform Use, Normative Discrepancies, and Alcohol Use Among Adolescents and Underage Young Adults

Although there is a robust literature examining normative discrepancies for drinking, less is known related to normative discrepancies related to alcohol-posting behavior on social networking sites (SNS). Given that SNS are posited to be an important risk factor for adolescent and young adult alcohol use, the aims of the present study were to: (1) document descriptive and injunctive normative discrepancies for number of alcohol-related posts on SNS, (2) examine associations between frequency of using SNS platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat) and descriptive and injunctive normative discrepancies, and (3) to examine whether descriptive and injunctive normative discrepancies are associated with willingness to use alcohol and drinking among adolescents and young adults. Data were drawn from the baseline assessment of a larger longitudinal experimental study (N= 306, age 15-20). Overall, participants perceived that their peers are more approving of and post about alcohol use more often than they do themselves, thus indicating significant descriptive and injunctive normative discrepancies. More frequent use of Facebook was associated with having greater descriptive normative discrepancies, whereas frequency of both Facebook and Instagram use were associated with greater injunctive normative discrepancies. Results further indicated that controlling for frequency of SNS use, descriptive normative discrepancies, but not injunctive, were associated with greater willingness to drink and drinks per week. Results provide evidence that in particular, descriptive normative discrepancies for SNS use may be important to target when planning intervention programs to reduce the impact of SNS use on adolescent and young adult alcohol use.

Social media use only helps, and does not harm, daily interactions and well-being.

In two studies we explore how different levels of social networking sites (SNSs) use affect the psychological constructs of well-being, social connection, and social capital. Conducting two studies and using a multiday experimental design in both an individualistic (United Kingdom [U.K.]) and a collectivistic (Bulgaria [BG]) society, we investigated differences in the effects of abstaining from SNS use, overuse, and normal use. Participants (U.K. n = 116; BG. n = 120) in the two within-subject studies reported on connectedness and two types of social capital (bridging; bonding), and their well-being, on days in which they had lower use of social media, used it as normal, or overused it. Results revealed no significant differences on well-being scores across the three conditions for the U.K. and Bulgaria. Social connection and bonding social capital significantly decreased on lower use days in the U.K. sample. These effects were not replicated in the Bulgarian sample. Findings did not indicate significant differences on the scores for bridging social capital across the three levels of SNS use for the participants from the U.K. and from Bulgaria. For the U.K. sample, social connection, in particular, served as an independent mediator linking lower use days to lower well-being, in contrast with normal use days. Suddenly lowering one’s social media use might lead to people experiencing less connected to others, thus impacting their well-being. However, overuse of SNS platforms is still underexplored, thus people should regulate their SNS use in an optimal way which best supports their daily lives.

Supplemental Material for Social media use only helps, and does not harm, daily interactions and well-being.

In two studies we explore how different levels of social networking sites (SNSs) use affect the psychological constructs of well-being, social connection, and social capital. Conducting two studies and using a multiday experimental design in both an individualistic (United Kingdom [U.K.]) and a collectivistic (Bulgaria [BG]) society, we investigated differences in the effects of abstaining from SNS use, overuse, and normal use. Participants (U.K. n = 116; BG. n = 120) in the two within-subject studies reported on connectedness and two types of social capital (bridging; bonding), and their well-being, on days in which they had lower use of social media, used it as normal, or overused it. Results revealed no significant differences on well-being scores across the three conditions for the U.K. and Bulgaria. Social connection and bonding social capital significantly decreased on lower use days in the U.K. sample. These effects were not replicated in the Bulgarian sample. Findings did not indicate significant differences on the scores for bridging social capital across the three levels of SNS use for the participants from the U.K. and from Bulgaria. For the U.K. sample, social connection, in particular, served as an independent mediator linking lower use days to lower well-being, in contrast with normal use days. Suddenly lowering one’s social media use might lead to people experiencing less connected to others, thus impacting their well-being. However, overuse of SNS platforms is still underexplored, thus people should regulate their SNS use in an optimal way which best supports their daily lives.

Forming digital identities in social networks: the role of privacy concerns and self-esteem

Purpose This paper aims to identify the data elements that social network sites (SNS) users consider important for shaping their digital identity and explore how users’ privacy concerns, self-esteem and the chosen SNS shape this process. Design/methodology/approach This study conducted an online survey with the participation of 759 individuals, to examine the influence of privacy concerns, self-esteem and the chosen SNS platform, on the shaping of the digital identity, through a classification of identity elements that users disclose when using a SNS, the Rosenberg self-esteem scale and relevant constructs from the literature. Findings Findings reveal that users consider the name, gender, picture, interests and job as most important elements for shaping their digital identity. They also demonstrate that privacy concerns do not seem to affect the amount of information users choose to publish when shaping their digital identity. Specific characteristics of SNS platforms are found to affect the way that users shape their digital identity and their privacy behavior. Finally, self-esteem was found to affect privacy concerns and digital identity formation. Research limitations/implications To avoid a lengthy questionnaire and the risk of low participation, the respondents answered the questions for one SNS of their choice instead of answering the full questionnaire for each SNS that they use. The survey included the most popular SNSs at the time of the survey in terms of popularity. Practical implications The results contribute to the theory by furthering our knowledge on the elements that shape digital identity and by providing evidence with regard to the role of privacy and self-esteem within social networking. In practice, they can be useful for SNS providers, as well as for entities that design security and privacy awareness campaigns. Originality/value This paper identifies novel factors that influence digital identity formation, including the specific SNS used with its particular characteristics in combination with privacy concerns and self-esteem of the user.

Are digital platforms potential drivers of the populist vote? A comparative analysis of France, Germany and Italy

ABSTRACT Populist parties are often argued to be very skilled in using digital media to attract supporters and strengthen linkages with their followers. However, only rarely has research shown this linkage empirically. This study explores whether arguments about the relation between digital platforms and populist voting can be substantiated using comparative survey data in France, Germany and Italy. Digital media include a variety of online platforms that can affect populist vote in different ways. This article addresses the relation between the political use of digital platforms and the populist vote. First, it looks at how the use of Social Networking Sites (SNS) and Mobile Instant Messaging Services (MIMS) is related to voting for populist parties. Second, it assesses whether the role of digital platforms is different for supporting digital ‘immigrant’ and digital ‘native’ populist parties. Third, it explores country differences in the relation between SNS and MIMS’ use and the populist vote. Using original online surveys, the article shows that political activities on SNS and MIMS platforms (sending messages or posting, discussing or convincing others to vote for a candidate) increase the probability of voting for populist parties. However, it also finds that the political use of digital media is associated with the populist vote under certain (and limited) circumstances, that is only for a subset of populist parties. Finally, it identifies important differences in how SNS and MIMS are linked to the populist vote in countries presenting diverse institutional features, web regulations and constellations of media systems.