Date of Award

4-2011

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Specialization

Communication and Leadership

School or Department

School of Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Heather Crandall

Second Advisor

Dr. Paul DePalma

Abstract

This study examined the impact that instant communication has on the social development of adolescents (12-18 years). While most studies have either focused on this medium as either entirely good or bad, this study aimed at the middle ground in understanding both the benefits and pitfalls. A qualitative research design was employed to measure the abstract concepts of „well-being‟ and „group belonging‟ in relation to the role that instant messaging plays into those concepts. This study utilized the theoretical lenses of Vygotsky‟s Social Development Theory, Erikson‟s Social Development Theory and Walther‟s Hyperpersonal Perspective. Employing the use of both focus groups and questionnaires, this research found that a direct correlation exists between the use of instant messaging on both an individual‟s sense of well-being and their group belonging. Future research could examine these concepts further by analyzing how relational closeness develops by employing the Social Penetration Theory, or the Social Identity Theory. As group inclusion is paramount in the ecology of adolescents, future research should continue to examine the connection between the constructs of group belonging and technology-based forms of communication.

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