Tag: online communities

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Communities and Web 2.0

Grindr and Gay Identity

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to describe how the LGBT community have embraced social networking and how for all the benefits that the community have gained, they still continue to challenge heterosexual norms. The introduction of Web 2.0 and the spread of social networking has enabled the LGBT community to flourish in a space that they have taken full advantage of. Dating apps such as Grindr have enabled the already strong community bonds within the LGBT community to be strengthened, Read more [...]
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Identity in Communities and Networks

Performative identities in online health and fitness communities are key to meeting fitness goals

Performative identities in online health and fitness communities are key to meeting fitness goalsDownload Individuals who are active participants in online health and fitness communities experience greater success in meeting their health and fitness goals when they portray a performative identity of a fit and healthy individual on social networking sites. Firstly, this paper will discuss the role of community in influencing individual members to achieve their health and fitness goals. It will Read more [...]
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Identity in Communities and Networks Social Networks

Visuals, Influencers, and Envy

The rise of social media networks has changed how we communicate, and visual communication has seemingly become important because it is more attractive and engaging. Social network platforms that are visually based are beneficial for people seeking to build their own brand as visual communication is effective in reaching large groups of people. Instagram has become more accessible and is now seen as a beneficial tool in the rise of beauty and fashion influencers. Particular features of Instagram Read more [...]
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Identity in Communities and Networks

You no longer need to go to Europe to “find yourself”: Youth and forming identity using social media communities

Downloadable PDF of this paper hereDownload ABSTRACT The rise and popularity of social media platforms has become a significant part of young adults’ social and emotional development. These social media networks (SNS) provide adolescents with new opportunities to perform, practice, and explore diverse individual identity expressions online. All while forming influential and supportive connections within these virtual communities. This paper defines a social media Read more [...]
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Communities and Online Gaming

Despite claims that MMOs cause social isolation, they are actually third places that prevent loneliness and support people with mental health issues.

Abstract Online gaming communities can have a beneficial and lasting effect on the mental health of those that may be socially inept or encumbered by loneliness. It is easier for to socially interact with others that have similar interests and hobbies, MMO communities is a platform that these people converge. Additionally, the online identity of the player introduces a layer of anonymity; which in turn increases the ease for beneficial organic social interaction to occur. Introduction Communities Read more [...]
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Communities and Web 2.0 Social Networks

Kmart Themed Instagram Accounts and the Online Communities they Inspire.

Kmart Themed Instagram Accounts and the Online Communities they Inspire. Kmart-Themed-Instagram-Accounts-and-the-Online-Communities-they-Inspire-PDFDownload Abstract: This conference paper is about Kmart themed Instagram accounts and the online communities that are created and supported by Kmart fans and Kmart Australia. This conference paper explains how the online communities evolved and why they are considered communities. This conference paper also touches on the benefits the online communities Read more [...]
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Social Networks

The value of social networks to engage and inform global citizens during an epidemic

Abstract This paper discusses the growing role of social media (SM) platforms to inform and connect communities during epidemics in the digital age, compared to a time when online networks were not as available or utilised by the huge volume of global citizens and Government agencies who use them today. While acknowledging valid concerns around the ease with which misinformation may be spread on SM, important uses of SM platforms are examined in relation to their ability to assist with disease Read more [...]
Categories
Social Networks

Lurkers are us: when nothing signifies something

The Facebook lurker has been given a bad rap. Portrayed as a wannabe, a faker or a shadowy figure with unknown motives, the lurker has become a social media archetype of Web 2.0. But behind the archetype, we are all Facebook lurkers and our use of the lurking posture plays an essential role in sustaining the egocentric Facebook communities we create. The profile of a reluctant lurker therefore is that of a socially detached actor, fearing consequences of their actions, feeling socially isolated Read more [...]