Use Of Social Networking Sites Research Articles

Reaching the Voters: Parties’ Use of Google Ads in the 2021 German Federal Election

Election campaigns during the pandemic showcased the increased use of costly digital campaigning by parties. While many studies focus on the use of Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and other social networking sites during elections, parties’ use of Google Ads remains widely unstudied. This is surprising given that parties spend a substantial proportion of their budget on Google Ads and Google reports on this spending and other details of the ads in its <em>Transparency Report</em>. Based on the equalisation vs. normalisation thesis, we identify party factors (size, age, government/opposition status, and electoral strongholds) that affect parties’ use of this instrument to a different degree in their campaigns. We aim to highlight parties’ use of Google Ads during the campaigns for the 2021 German Bundestag election, relying on the official data provided via Google’s Ad Library. We discuss both empirical work on the factors that determine the use of Google Ads and conceptual work on the merit and perils of such ads in democratic elections, and we present descriptive and exploratory findings of our deep dive into the archive of Google Ads.

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.

Understanding SNS use reduction from the perspective of the cognitive-affective model

PurposeThis investigation delves into the elements influencing social networking sites (SNS) use reduction behavior through the lens of the cognitive-affective (CA) model to understand the driving forces behind the decline in SNS use.Design/methodology/approachFollowing the CA model, this research introduces a theoretical framework that integrates the emotions of regret and guilt along with the principles of cognitive dissonance theory. The proposed theoretical framework was subjected to empirical validation, utilizing 453 responses gathered from Instagram users.FindingsThe results suggest that the emotions of regret and guilt have a favorable impact on users’ intention to decrease their SNS usage, with cognitive dissonance exerting an indirect positive influence through these emotions. Additionally, further examination unveils that fear moderates the connection between users’ SNS addiction and the CA components.Research limitations/implicationsAdditional cognitive and affective responses may influence the intricate relation between SNS addiction and SNS use reduction intention.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the existing body of knowledge on the information system use lifecycle by examining shifts in user behavior, notably the transition from excessive use to the adoption of use reduction strategies. Furthermore, it sheds light on the intricate role of cognitive dissonance in elucidating the intention to reduce SNS use from the perspective of the CA model. Additionally, this study advances our current understanding of how the fear of negative consequences arising from excessive usage plays a role as a moderating factor in elucidating the underlying internal factors related to reducing SNS usage.

Teaching Professional Use of Social Networking Sites Through a Hypothetical Case Study

Organizations use social networking sites (SNSs) to create collaborative communication channels among employees, consumers, and clients. Organizations expect future employees to be well trained in using SNSs. However, students do not accept SNSs as a professional channel of communication since they use SNSs for fun and socializing. A hypothetical case study was developed to explain the consequences of the unmindful use of SNSs in a professional context. The article discusses the need to use a case study in this context. The effectiveness of the case is assessed through a survey questionnaire. Recommendations for BPC faculty for using the case are also discussed.

Self-presentational concerns and lurking among users on social networking sites: an empirical study based on a moderated mediation model

Purpose The phenomenon of nonposting behavior, known as lurking, has become increasingly prevalent on social networking sites (SNS). This study aims to understand why certain users are inclined to lurk on SNS by proposing a theoretical framework that integrates self-presentational concerns, SNS fatigue and social presence. Design/methodology/approach Building upon the theoretical framework, a moderated mediation model is established to illustrate the mechanisms of lurking on SNS. Survey data were collected from 616 SNS users through an online survey and analyzed using the SPSS macro PROCESS. Findings The findings show that self-presentational concerns have positive and direct effects on lurking. Moreover, the relationship between self-presentational concerns and lurking is partially mediated by SNS fatigue. Furthermore, both the direct effect and the mediating effect are moderated by social presence. Originality/value This study offers a novel theoretical perspective on lurking behavior by introducing a moderated mediation model. The findings reveal intricate mechanisms underlying this specific SNS usage behavior and its connections to both self-presentational concerns and SNS fatigue, thereby enriching the existing literature on user engagement and inactivity on SNS. Furthermore, this research highlights the pivotal role of social presence in moderating the effects of self-presentational concerns, offering new insights into the dynamics of online social interactions.

Unveiling mechanism of SNSs addiction on wellbeing: the moderating role of loneliness and social anxiety

ABSTRACT Social networking sites (SNSs) play a crucial role in the lives of online users. This research aims to investigate the underlying mechanisms of SNS addiction and its subsequent impact on the wellbeing of online users. Employing the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) model, we examine the influence of perceived enjoyment, utilitarian needs, and social influence on SNSs addiction and its associated consequences. Additionally, we consider the boundary conditions of loneliness as the predictors of SNSs addiction and social anxiety in the association between SNSs addiction and strain. We collected data (Time 1 and II) from 558 SNSs users using an online survey. By employing structural equation modelling via Smart PLS 4.0, our findings indicate that perceived enjoyment, utilitarian needs, and social influence significantly contribute to SNSs addiction. Furthermore, SNS addiction is positively correlated with strain, which positively triggers users’ wellbeing. We also found a significant positive moderating effect of loneliness and social anxiety on the proposed relationships. Overall, this study enhances our understanding of the theoretical foundations and multifaceted influences contributing to the literature on SNSs addiction and its impact on wellbeing through strain. It also acknowledges the study's limitations and suggests directions for future research.

Digital diaspora

In this paper, we examined the relationship between social networking sites (SNSs) and the coping strategies international students adopt amidst cultural shocks in India, particularly in the vibrant locale of Chandigarh. The study scrutinizes pivotal factors that influence international students' SNS use and creates and validates an instrument that measures this relationship. Grounded in the uses and gratifications theory (UGT), this research introduces an instrument—the Social Capital Assessment Scale and Inventory (SCASI), which was developed via exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The research concludes that SNSs play a pivotal role in the globalization of information, encompassing education, knowledge dissemination, interactivity, and cultural exchange in geographically diverse countries such as India.

Explaining Privacy Paradox on WeChat

With the development of the information age, people need to disclose personal information in exchange for socializing and related services. At the same time, people's privacy concerns are gradually increasing. Privacy paradox has become a normal phenomenon in social network sites (SNS). The loss of control of privacy might lead to privacy fatigue. Previous work has studied the mechanism of privacy paradox and explored the influence of specific factors on privacy paradox. However, the effect of privacy fatigue on privacy paradox among SNS users has not been studied. In this study, we use structural equation modeling (SEM) to explore the effect of privacy fatigue on personal information disclosure intentions and actual behaviors among WeChat users. Our results of 710 participants showed that privacy fatigue has a mediating role between privacy concern and privacy disclosure intention, and has a positive influence on privacy disclosure intention and disclosure behavior. Based on these results, we provide implications to reduce privacy fatigue and privacy paradox.

UNLOCKING ACADEMIC SUCCESS IN THE DIGITAL AGE: HOW SOCIAL MEDIA USE, SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT, AND SELF-REGULATION SHAPE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS' PERFORMANCE

In the digital age, social media has become an integral part of university life, influencing students' academic performance and social engagement. This study investigates the relationships between social networking site (SNS) usage, social engagement, self-regulation, and academic performance among Chinese university students. Utilizing a sample of 438 students from a public university, data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered via WeChat and Ding Talk. The analysis employed Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) using SmartPLS version 4.1 to test the proposed hypotheses. The results indicate that SNS usage significantly and positively influences students' academic performance and social engagement. Furthermore, social engagement was found to mediate the relationship between SNS usage and academic performance, suggesting that the benefits of social media extend beyond mere academic collaboration. Additionally, self-regulation was identified as a moderating factor, strengthening the positive impact of SNS usage on academic performance. These findings highlight the importance of leveraging social media as a tool for enhancing academic success while emphasizing the need for self-regulatory skills in navigating digital environments. This study provides valuable insights for educators and policymakers aiming to optimize the academic potential of social media in higher education settings. KEYWORDS: Social networking site usage, Social Engagement, Academic Performance, Self-Regulation

The mediating role of intentional self-regulation in the constructive and pathological compensation processes of problematic social networking use

Perceived social isolation is a key predictor of college students’ problematic social networking site use (PSNSU). According to the Fear-Driven/Compensation-Seeking Hypothesis, reducing the fear of social isolation and compensating for social deficits serve as negative reinforcement motivations for SNS use, which may potentially result in PSNSU. This study investigated the association between perceived social isolation and PSNSU through the mediating roles of intentional self-regulation and parasocial relationships from a compensatory perspective. Additionally, gender differences in the mediating model were examined. Findings from an online survey of 893 college students in China revealed a positive relationship between perceived social isolation and PSNSU. The serial mediation model showed that intentional self-regulation and parasocial relationships both had positive individual mediating effects, as well as a negative serial mediating effect. Moreover, these mediating effects were only significant among women. The findings suggest that in the association between perceived social isolation and PSNSU, the mediating role of intentional self-regulation forms a constructive compensatory process, while its serial mediating role through parasocial relationships forms a pathological compensatory process. Interventions for PSNSU should take the mediating role of intentional self-regulation in constructive compensation process and the gender difference into consideration.

Differences between Doctors of Dental Medicine and Doctors of Medicine Awareness of Their Online Image and Perception Concerns: a Quantitative Cross-Sectional Study.

Healthcare professionals (HCPs), including doctors of dental medicine (DMDs) and doctors of medicine (MDs), use social networking sites (SNSs) for personal and professional purposes. This study aims to: (i) explore DMDs and MDs awareness of their online presence, (ii) examine how frequently and for what reasons DMDs and MDs monitor their online images, (iii) determine the prevalence of finding inaccurate, incomplete, or unprofessional information about themselves, examine that experience, and investigate actions performed regarding unprofessional or embarrassing posted material, (iv) assess concerns about their own SNSs usage and the content they post. A cross-sectional study was conducted among DMDs and MDs in Croatia using a questionnaire. Out of 1,013 participants, 753 were active SNS users. Facebook (91.6%) and Instagram (63.1%) were the predominant SNSs used. DMDs exhibited a significantly higher inclination to utilize SNSs for professional purposes than MDs. Both groups reported a high level of proficiency in using Facebook (M=3.2, SD=0.827) and Instagram (M=2.44, SD=1.162). Approximately 55.4% of the participants repored monitoring their online presence, typically once a year or less frequently. DMDs emphasized the completeness of posted information more than MDs (U=25,623.0, p=0.001). Their highest level of concern pertained to confidentiality breaches and inaccurate medical and dental information. There are similar results for MDs and DMDs for finding erroneous information posted on SNSs. This study offers insights into HCPs' online presence, and their concerns regarding SNS usage. It underscores the significance of e-professionalism, and provides recommendations for maintaining a positive online presence while mitigating potential risks.

Enhancing ESL Learners’ Speaking Skills through the use of Social Networking Sites

Enhancing ESL Learners’ Speaking Skills through the use of Social Networking Sites

Social Media Use: A Cognitive Dissonance Analysis of Heavy Users and Engagement Dynamics

Abstract Purpose – This research investigates the correlation between the utilization of social networking sites, user engagement, and cognitive dissonance. It explores the mediating influence of e-compulsive buying behavior (ECBB) in the connection between SNS use, user engagement, and cognitive dissonance, while also examining the moderating impact of self-esteem on SNS use, user engagement, and ECBB. Methodology – Utilizing purposive sampling, this study collected cross-sectional data from 232 female participants actively engaged in social networking sites (SNSs) and who had made 4-5 online purchases during the last six months. Data were gathered through an electronically administered questionnaire. Descriptive data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 21, while SmartPLS version 4.0 was employed to test the proposed hypotheses. Findings – The findings indicate a significant association between the utilization of social networking sites (SNSs) and user engagement with cognitive dissonance and ECBB. Additionally, it was observed that self-esteem played a moderating role in the relationship between SNS use, user engagement, ECBB, and cognitive dissonance, revealing a heightened impact of cognitive dissonance at lower levels of self-esteem. Practical Implications – These results carry implications for implementing interventions aimed at mitigating the adverse consequences associated with social networking site (SNSs) use, thereby fostering favorable mental health outcomes within the community. Moreover, this study offers valuable insights for managers seeking to enhance their social media strategies by analyzing the varied impacts of social media content and understanding the dynamics between posts to engage both active and passive users effectively. Originality/Value – This study contributes to the limited body of empirical research by examining the correlation between social networking site (SNSs) use, user engagement, and cognitive dissonance through the lens of ECBB. Additionally, in response to recent calls from various empirical studies in this field, the inclusion of self-esteem as a moderating variable predicting cognitive dissonance enhances the novelty of this research.

Social Networks as a Tool for Evidence-Based Health Education: Umbrella Review.

The number of people who access social networking sites continues to increase at an exponential rate. The use of technology is an essential skill for nursing professionals and its development represents a challenge in improving health education, promotion and care. The objective of this systematic review is to analyse the use of social networking sites by healthcare professionals as an intervention tool for evidence-based public health education. The protocol of this umbrella review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42023407249). Searches were carried out in MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO (EBSCOhost), and Cochrane Library of Systematic Reviews, in February 2023. A narrative synthesis of the results was conducted. 1896 articles were found, of which 15 reviews fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Social networks broadened the profession; they were YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram. The target population was mainly young professionals, and they came across different topic areas that addressed health education. It is important to have information backed by scientific evidence to make health decisions. Health professionals active on social networking sites have a unique opportunity to educate the public about health by sharing scientific evidence in an accessible and clear way, which helps to combat misinformation.

Influence of social networking site use on body image disturbances among young women in China

Young adult women in China are at high risk of body image disturbances and are among the most frequent users of social networking sites (SNS). We investigated the association between SNS use and body image disturbances in this group, as well as the mediating effect of upward social comparison. We recruited 511 women to complete questionnaires on SNS use, upward social comparison, and body dissatisfaction. Results indicated that SNS use was significantly and positively associated with upward social comparison and body dissatisfaction among young women in China, and upward social comparison mediated this association. Findings from the current study provide new evidence for the tripartite influence model of body image and indicate that SNS use is a risk factor for body image disturbances.

Beyond the Screen: A Comprehensive Analysis of Emotional Skills and Social Networking in French Young Adults.

(1) Background: This study investigates the influence of social networks on young adults, focusing on both positive and negative impacts. It considers problematic social networking site use (PSNSU), emotional intelligence, empathy, and the phenomenon of Fear of Missing Out (FoMO). (2) Methods: A comprehensive online survey was conducted with 442 participants aged 18 to 30 years that used various psychometric tools to assess emotional intelligence, empathy, internet and social media use, and FoMO. (3) Results: The study revealed that young adults display low competencies in emotional intelligence and empathy, with a tendency towards problematic internet and social media use. High FoMO scores were observed, correlating with negative internet use outcomes. Gender differences in these aspects were also explored. (4) Conclusions: The findings suggest a complex interaction between social network use, emotional skills, and FoMO that impacts young adults' mental health and social behaviors. This study highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of these relationships and their implications for well-being and social interaction in the digital age.

Social comparisons at social networking sites: how social Media-induced fear of missing out and envy drive compulsive use

PurposeA major portion of our social interaction now occurs online, facilitated by social networking sites (SNSs) that enable people to connect and communicate at will. However, the characteristics of SNS communication can introduce problematic outcomes on otherwise healthy processes, one of which is social comparison. In this work, we investigate whether compulsive SNS use could be driven by two phenomena related to social comparison: the fear of missing out (FoMO) and envy.Design/methodology/approachUsing the stimulus-organism-response framework, we developed a model that was tested with data from a sample of SNS users (N = 330) based in the United States. The analysis was done through partial least squares structural equation modeling.FindingsOur findings show FoMO's association with the two forms of dispositional experienced envy, benign and malicious, as well as expected envy of others (expected envy). Interestingly, benign and expected envy were associated with SNS stalking and self-disclosure, but malicious envy had non-significant associations. Finally, both SNS stalking and self-disclosure were linked to compulsive SNS use.Originality/valueWe study the nuanced ways in which the two forms of experienced envy and expected envy can be triggered by FoMO and result in users' engagement with problematic SNS use. Our research provides evidence that, in addition to benign envy being an antecedent of compulsive SNS use, the wish to invoke envious feelings in others can also significantly drive compulsive use.

The use of social network sites in university extension projects: the case of the Geotecnologias na rede extension project

The use of social network sites in university extension projects: the case of the Geotecnologias na rede extension project

A Comparative Tale of Peer-to-Peer, Client-to-Peer and Hybrid Networks in Federated Social Networking Sites in Educational Institutions

Due to increase in use of social networking sites(SNSs) in educational institutions, it has become common for institutions to adopt SNSs in academic institutions. Federated social networking sites(FSNSs) are powerful decentralisation platforms for educational activities. Qualitative scientific thorough review of relevant literature from multiple databases and qualitative survey from experts for Hybrid FSNS validation purposes. Peer-to-peer, client-to-server and hybrid networks present an excellent way of decentralising SNSs, however institution may need to scrutinise underlying functional and non-functional capabilities of each network architecture in order to come up with best platform for their institutions. Contemporary education need eLearning models that addresses critical needs for more effective and scalable educational solutions that can leverage benefits of SNSs while overcoming their limitations. Stakeholders should be able to make an informed decision as to which network to employ in their FSNSs, so that they can benefit from platforms’ specific educational opportunities.

Cross-lagged panel analysis of the relationship between social networking sites use (SNSU) and sleep problems among university students

BackgroundSleep remains a cornerstone for sociopsychological well-being, but it is in decline, especially among today’s youth. Simultaneously, engagement with social media is escalating. Research has identified a link between social networking sites use and sleep problems; however, the nature and direction of the relations remain obscure. Therefore, it is imperative to pursue longitudinal research to elucidate this correlation and guide suitable intervention practices. The present study aimed to examine the reciprocal relationship between social networking sites use and sleep problems.MethodsBy adopting a three-stage cross-lagged design across four time points, assessment results from 194 university students were gathered at four-week intervals.ResultsThe findings indicate that (1) Social networking sites use was significantly greater in females than in males at all four time points, while sleep problems were significantly greater in females than in males at Time 3 and Time 4. (2) Sleep problems at the second time point serve as a positive predictor of subsequent social networking sites use at the third time point. (3) Social networking sites use at the initial time point could marginally significantly predict sleep problems at the fourth time point.ConclusionsThis study elucidates the dynamic relationship between social networking sites use and sleep problems across an academic term, suggesting the need for temporally tailored interventions.