Date of Award

1-1-2014

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Specialization

Communication and Leadership

School or Department

School of Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Pavel Shlossberg

Second Advisor

Dr. Carolyn Cunningham

Abstract

This study examines how and what female teenagers communicate through blogging; how they manage uncertainty and anxiety within their posts and/or comments; the role communication anxiety/uncertainty plays in self-presentation and self-disclosure for this population; and how, when faced with bullying, flaming and adverse responses, they express and manage anxiety and uncertainty online. Using both Buber’s (1970) I-It and I-Thou philosophy and Gudykunst’s (2005) Anxiety and Uncertainty Management theory, this study examined the blog sites of three female U.S. teenagers. Examining the five most recently published blog posts, the study analyzed the details and self-disclosure levels, from site design and development; post content themes; and identity and esteem levels of the bloggers, to the audience participation and engagement of site visitors. Research revealed this population is using blogging as a way to chronicle and communicate the anxiety and uncertainty that is prevalent in their day-to-day lives. The bloggers studied disclose intimate details, yet still maintain a certain level of anonymity as a method of self-preservation. In addition, while the bloggers may face adverse reactions in real life, there is a great deal of support and positivity within the feedback posted by site visitors. As there is limited research into the role communication anxiety and uncertainty plays within the female, teenaged blogger population, additional research is suggested.

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