My social network: Group differences in frequency of use, active use, and interactive use on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter

The goal of this study is to understand the differences in scope and patterns of frequency of use and interactive and active consumption on three leading social media platforms, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter [1]. A representative sample of 501 participants completed an online survey. Of all participants, 95% had a Facebook account, 70% had an Instagram account, and 26% had a Twitter account at the time of the survey. The study found that gender, age, status, and education can predict the frequency of overall use, active use, and interactive use of social media. The findings are explained by the symbolic interactionism approach: Although it might seem that traditional role norms would be maintained on social media, social platforms appear to offer members of disadvantaged social groups, such as women, singles, younger adults, and less educated individuals an opportunity to affiliate with a large group that shares their cultural codes.

Automated summary

This study aims to understand the differences in scope and patterns of use among Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, and finds that gender, age, status, and education can predict the frequency and mode of social media usage. The study suggests that social media platforms provide opportunities for disadvantaged individuals, such as women, singles, younger adults, and less educated individuals, to connect with a large group that shares their cultural codes.