No we don't have WiFi. Talk to each other: Understanding the dynamics of computer-mediated communication and its impact on well-being

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT : Computer-mediated communication (CMC) has expanded into an everyday phenomenonwhose influence in the way individuals communicate with one another and behave in varioussocial contexts is increasingly being noted. Interest in understanding this phenomenon better isincreasing in prominence. With the advancement of mobile phones from tools for basiccommunication, to devices that allow one to do anything previously limited to Internet enabledcomputers; these mobile smart-phones and other CMC devices have become the ultimatepersonal resource for communication and entertainment, allowing access anywhere and atanytime. Although research into this phenomenon is fairly substantial, an understanding of thecomplexity and dynamics of the use of this media technology, and the social and psychologicalelements that drive its use, are limited.The youth are especially acknowledged for embracing the varied functions and socialinteraction capabilities afforded by CMC. University students are identified as a cohort ofparticular interest in this regard, due to various factors such as an emphasis on social integration,identity and relationship development, independence, and academic expectations. As such, thisthesis sought to explore the lived experiences of university students in relation to the use of CMCin their daily lives. A particular focus of this study was consideration of the link between CMCand the importance of social identification in the university context. A qualitative design wasutilised, and 15 students from Stellenbosch University were selected from a combination ofpurposive and snowball sampling methods. These 15 students, aged between 18 and 25, fromvarious academic disciplines were interviewed using a semi-structured method. InterpretativePhenomenological Analysis (IPA) was employed in analysing the semi-structured interviews,and in generating the emergent themes.After careful considerations of various theoretical frameworks, the Social Identity Theory(SIT) were identified as a useful theoretical framework through which the interpretation of thefindings could be contextualised; and links with the existing literature were established. Herein itwas highlighted that the students perceived notions of normative behaviour, and socialexpectations regarding use of CMC and their identity as a member of the student body, informedmany of their practices and social interactions. Central to the adherence of these socially derivednorms was a desire to fulfil the fundamental need to belong and to feel accepted in their social context. Students indicated an internal struggle with the temptation and appeal of using CMC;and in fulfilling academic obligations and engaging in their present surroundings. Highlightedamong the appealing aspects of CMC, was its utilisation for selective self-presentation,impression management, maintaining and communicating desired relationships, and the safety itoffers in challenging social situations.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University