Networked technologies as emotional resources? Exploring emerging emotional cultures on social network sites such as Facebook and Hi5: a trans-cultural study | Culture and communication in digital worlds

Author(s): Margarita M. Köhl, Gerit Götzenbrucker

Year of publication: 2014

Keywords: Social network sites (SNS), Emotional culture, Transcultural study, User experience, Lifelogging

Methodology/Sample: Qualitative/interviews (n = 25), online survey (n = 757)

Reference: Köhl, M. M., & Götzenbrucker, G. (2014). Networked technologies as emotional resources? Exploring emerging emotional cultures on social network sites such as Facebook and Hi5: a trans-cultural study. Media, Culture & Society, 36(4), 508-525. https://doi.org/10.1177/0163443714523813

Abstract

This trans-cultural study deals with the question whether social network sites (SNS)may be considered ‘third places’, where young people find an unrestricted space for self-expression and reflection apart from formal environments (such as universities) and parental control, as well as whether the perception and adoption of such services varies among different cultural communities. To assess these questions, group discussions, qualitative interviews (n = 25) and an online survey (n = 757) were conducted in Thailand and Austria. While all of the respondents use SNS for lifelogging – storing and sharing life experience – the perception of emotional third-place qualities of SNS varies among young people living in Thailand and Austria. The findings show that some effects related to emotional aspects of technology usage might result from the stage of diffusion of technology, while aspects of emotional experience and expression might be influenced by cultural models.

> Summary

The study explores whether social network sites (SNS) serve as ‘third places’ for self-expression among youth in Thailand and Austria.
It highlights the emotional aspects of technology usage and cultural influences on emotional expression.
Findings indicate that perceptions of SNS as emotional third places vary across different cultural communities.
The research involved qualitative interviews and an online survey to assess these perceptions.

> Problem statement

The study investigates whether social network sites (SNS) can be considered ‘third places’ for self-expression among young people.
It examines how the perception and adoption of SNS vary across different cultural communities, specifically in Thailand and Austria.
The research addresses the emotional aspects of technology usage and their influence on cultural models.

> Methods used

The study employed a triangulation of qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection and analysis.
Qualitative methods included 25 in-depth interviews with young people in Bangkok and Vienna.
Group discussions and interviews were conducted to gather diverse perspectives.
An online survey with 757 university students assessed the relevance of social networks.
The online questionnaire was based on qualitative findings, focusing on motives for using social networking platforms.
Data analysis involved categorizing responses and connecting them to meta-theoretical levels.
The study aimed to explore SNS as ‘third places’ for self-expression and reflection.

> Practical implications

The study suggests SNS can serve as ‘third places’ for self-expression and reflection among young people.
It highlights the need to understand cultural differences in technology adoption and emotional experiences.
Researchers should explore how technological diffusion stages affect user experiences and emotional expressions.
The findings encourage further investigation into the impact of SNS on traditional concepts of family and friendship.
Expanding the study’s scope to other cultural areas may reveal hidden cultural constructions.