scholarly journals Creating an Online Self: Developing Virtual Identity in Online Group Interaction Spaces

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (3) ◽  
pp. 18-31
Author(s):  
George King’ara ◽  
Deckillah Omukoba
Keyword(s):  
Identity Formation ◽  
Impression Management ◽  
Communication Theory ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Individual Group ◽  
Online Groups ◽  
Virtual Identity ◽  
Group Members ◽  
Dimensional Identity ◽  
Online Group

Online groups have pervasively become platforms for association and interaction. Hence, it is important to study how interactions on these virtual groups affect the selves of individual group members, and whether communication activities in these groups lead to formation of virtual identities of active members which is distinguishable from their non-mediated identity. To analyze the development of virtual identity, four focus group discussions of ten youthful participants each, who were members of various online groups, were conducted and eight social media experts were interviewed. Concepts of Communication Theory of Identity (CTI) and Uses and Gratification Theory were employed to analyze collected data in assessing how online group interactions that involve fashioning identity, impression management, anonymity and pro-social behavior lead to formation of online group members virtual identity. We first interrogate how these online groups shape behavior online by interrogating the individual group member’s conversations and actions online and paralleling them with their conversations and actions offline. Second, using the three-dimensional identity formation model (Crocetti, Rubini, & Meeus, 2008), we crystalize how these online interactions and behavior cause individual group member’s to feel, think and understand themselves in ways that promote a unique online-self, which we refer to as the virtual identity. 

scholarly journals Online Group Interaction and the Development of Virtual Identity Among the Youth in Nairobi County, Kenya

2021 ◽  
Vol 3 (2) ◽  
pp. 15-30
Author(s):  
Deckillah S Omukoba ◽  
Tommy K Kiilu
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Identity Development ◽  
Group Interaction ◽  
Mixed Method Research ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Online Groups ◽  
Virtual Identity ◽  
Independent Variable ◽  
Online Group

The internet has taken the new role of community through online groups where youth congregate to interact, exchange ideas and pursue interests. As they engage in self-expression and self-presentation online, it is important to understand how virtual identity is negotiated and formed in those spaces. This research analyzed online group interaction and the development of virtual identity among the youth in Nairobi County. The objectives guiding the study were: 1) To establish the extent to which the youth are part of online groups. 2) To establish the reasons that influence the youth to join online groups. 3) To determine the extent to which online group membership develops the virtual identity of the youth. The independent variable in the study is online group interaction while the dependent variable is virtual identity development. Review of literature in this research is based on various aspects of online group interaction in relation to its potentiality in forming the virtual identity of group members. The communication theory of identity (CTI) and uses and gratification theory (U&G) were adopted to form the theoretical framework for this research. The study employed a mixed method research design in which the main methods used in data collection included; Self-administered questionnaires, Focus Group Discussions, and In-depth interviews. This study comprised four focus group discussions of ten members each sampled from two Universities in Nairobi County, a young professionals group in Kasarani sub-county and a youth support group in Mwiki Nairobi, County. Eight social media experts were interviewed. A cross-sectional survey targeting the youth was conducted in two Universities in Nairobi in which 384 questionnaires were administered to the targeted respondents. The data collected was analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively based on the themes derived from the objectives of this study. Quantitative data was analyzed using the SPSS software, while the qualitative data was analyzed using the NVIVO software. The three-dimensional identity model by Crocetti, Rubini, & Meeus, (2008) was also used to analyze objective three of this study. Findings revealed that the independent variable of online interaction influenced the performance of users online leading to the development of a virtual identity that they are associated with. Equally the reasons for interaction online such as bonding and bridging influence the kind of self-expressions that the users exhibit online thus characterizing their virtual identity. The study concluded that because the youth are engaging online, they are performing ever-changing identities. There is therefore a need for them to be guided for positive outcomes. Equally the study made the following recommendations, firstly, online group interactions could be used positively as a platform for social interaction and change. Secondly, more online groups that address youth related matters should be created as a way of addressing this transitional stage in life. The study suggested further research in rural context and the adult segment.

Collaborative Information Behavior in Completely Online Groups

2010 ◽  
pp. 109-126 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sean Goggins ◽  
Sanda Erdelez
Keyword(s):  
Information Behavior ◽  
Information Resources ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Online Groups ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Information Tools ◽  
Group Members ◽  
Future Research Directions ◽  
Information Horizons ◽  
Online Group

This chapter situates collaborative information behavior in completely online groups as a phenomenon distinct from prior work understanding collaborative information behavior in face-to-face groups, free and open source software groups and Wikipedia groups. The unexpected diversity of information resources utilized by completely online group members is analyzed through Sonnenwald’s Information Horizons theory. Information practices of completely online group members are described, and the key themes of groups as information resources, the influence of tool change on collaborative information behavior online, and the focusing potential of collaborative information tools for completely online group work are explicated. Future research directions that explore the potential of COGs for distributed innovation; new types of collaborative information behavior and breaking down the digital divide are reviewed.

Collaborative Information Behavior in Completely Online Groups

2013 ◽  
pp. 1026-1043
Author(s):  
Sean Goggins ◽  
Sanda Erdelez
Keyword(s):  
Information Behavior ◽  
Information Resources ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Online Groups ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Information Tools ◽  
Group Members ◽  
Future Research Directions ◽  
Information Horizons ◽  
Online Group

This chapter situates collaborative information behavior in completely online groups as a phenomenon distinct from prior work understanding collaborative information behavior in face-to-face groups, free and open source software groups and Wikipedia groups. The unexpected diversity of information resources utilized by completely online group members is analyzed through Sonnenwald’s Information Horizons theory. Information practices of completely online group members are described, and the key themes of groups as information resources, the influence of tool change on collaborative information behavior online, and the focusing potential of collaborative information tools for completely online group work are explicated. Future research directions that explore the potential of COGs for distributed innovation; new types of collaborative information behavior and breaking down the digital divide are reviewed.

scholarly journals Student feedback on an online group used to support a Medical Humanities module in a Nepalese medical school

2012 ◽  
Vol 6 (4) ◽  
pp. 79-85 ◽  
Author(s):  
PR Shankar ◽  
RM Piryani
Keyword(s):  
Student Perceptions ◽  
Medical Humanities ◽  
Student Feedback ◽  
First Year ◽  
Undergraduate Medical Students ◽  
Online Groups ◽  
Improvement Method ◽  
Group Members ◽  
Important Means ◽  
Online Group

Background: An online Google group was created to supplement a Medical Humanities module at KISTMedical College. Objectives: The present study was carried out to understand student perceptions about the online group, understand factors preventing its widespread use and obtain suggestions for improvement. Method: The study was carried out among first year undergraduate medical students. They were explained the aims and objectives of the study and invited to participate after obtaining written, informed consent. Student feedback was collected in the form of their responses to a set of 10 questions about the online group. The responses were analyzed and common ones tabulated. Results: Fifty-eight of the 75 students participated. Forty-nine students were aware of the group. Only 10 respondents were group members. The group was regarded as a virtual grouping for sharing ideas about Medical Humanities and could provide knowledge about the subject and act as a backup resource in case students were unable to attend a session. The group was felt to be unsuccessful. Problems of internet access, load shedding and problems of managing time were hindering factors. Better publicity about the group, demonstrating the group during Wednesday’s session and making students utilize the group by submitting assignments through it were suggested. Conclusions: The KISTMC MH group was not successful and steps for improvement must be taken in future sessions. Major reasons hindering use of the group were mentioned. The issue should be further explored as online groups are an important means to support curricular initiates in medical schools. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal,2011,Vol-6,No-4, 79-85 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v6i4.6734 

Network Autocorrelation of Task Performance via Informal Communication Within a Virtual World

2015 ◽  
Vol 27 (1) ◽  
pp. 33-44 ◽  
Author(s):  
Caleb T. Carr ◽  
Paul Zube
Keyword(s):  
Task Performance ◽  
Virtual World ◽  
World Of Warcraft ◽  
Online Game ◽  
Informal Communication ◽  
Online Groups ◽  
Network Autocorrelation ◽  
Virtual Group ◽  
Group Members ◽  
Individual Achievement

Network autocorrelation occurs when individuals receive assistance from others which regulates their own behavior, and it can be used to explain how group members may improve their task performance. This study explored how network autocorrelation, via informal communication within a virtual group, affected an individual’s task achievement in the online game World of Warcraft. Informal interactions between guild members during a 4-year period were collected and analyzed to assess how informal interactions with other group members affected an individual’s in-game achievement. Findings indicate informal communication from other group members (specifically the experience and helpfulness of the other members) positively predict an individual’s task performance, while tenure with the group negatively predict individual achievement. Findings are discussed with respect to network analysis and influence in online groups.

The codevelopment of group relationships: The role of individual group member’s and other group members’ mutual influence and shared group environment.

2019 ◽  
Vol 66 (5) ◽  
pp. 640-649 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gianluca Lo Coco ◽  
Salvatore Gullo ◽  
Gabriele Profita ◽  
Chiara Pazzagli ◽  
Claudia Mazzeschi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mutual Influence ◽  
Individual Group ◽  
Group Environment ◽  
Group Members ◽  
Group Relationships

The Epistemology of Groups

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jennifer Lackey
Keyword(s):  
Group Level ◽  
Social Significance ◽  
Individual Group ◽  
Key Concepts ◽  
Normative Requirements ◽  
Group Members ◽  
The Individual ◽  
Belief Justification ◽  
In Virtue Of ◽  
Trump Administration

Groups are often said to bear responsibility for their actions, many of which have enormous moral, legal, and social significance. The Trump Administration, for instance, is said to be responsible for the U.S.’s inept and deceptive handling of COVID-19 and the harms that American citizens have suffered as a result. But are groups subject to normative assessment simply in virtue of their individual members being so, or are they somehow agents in their own right? Answering this question depends on understanding key concepts in the epistemology of groups, as we cannot hold the Trump Administration responsible without first determining what it believed, knew, and said. Deflationary theorists hold that group phenomena can be understood entirely in terms of individual members and their states. Inflationary theorists maintain that group phenomena are importantly over and above, or otherwise distinct from, individual members and their states. It is argued that neither approach is satisfactory. Groups are more than their members, but not because they have “minds of their own,” as the inflationists hold. Instead, this book shows how group phenomena—like belief, justification, and knowledge—depend on what the individual group members do or are capable of doing while being subject to group-level normative requirements. This framework, it is argued, allows for the correct distribution of responsibility across groups and their individual members.

scholarly journals Possibilities of Psychological Intervention on Social Networks

2018 ◽  
Vol 8 (3) ◽  
pp. 35-49 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marek Madro
Keyword(s):  
Social Networks ◽  
Domestic Violence ◽  
Psychological Intervention ◽  
Personal Contact ◽  
Online Groups ◽  
Field Worker ◽  
Self Help ◽  
Group Members ◽  
Online Disinhibition ◽  
Self Help Groups

AbstractIntroduction: Nowadays we are looking for help and answers to our questions more and more often on the Internet. People use social networks to search for communities or groups whose members experience similar difficulties. These are often online groups that focus on psychological problems, domestic violence, etc. Members receive instant feedback and at the same time, due to the online disinhibition effect, they do not feel the fear, shame or worries they would feel in personal contact (Griffiths, 2005). The content of such self-help groups is not always helpful, but may rather induce pathological behaviour. However, the group administrator can influence the atmosphere in the group and its content itself (Niwa & Mandrusiak, 2012).Purpose: The purpose of this research was to find a space to perform professional psychological interventions inside online self-help groups on social networks. The concept of a field worker was used in this research. The field worker offers helping services to clients in an environment natural to them and where the worker can provide the client with emergency help during the crisis and prevent other clients from offering risk advices (Ambrózová, Vitálošová, & Labáth, 2006).Methods: We have conducted qualitative research using the method of content-frequency analysis. The sample for this study consisted of 10 closed online self-help groups focusing on topics such as depression, anxiety disorder, domestic violence, self-injurious and suicidal thoughts and tendencies, etc. For the purpose of this research we created an online group moderated by professionals, focusing on similar topics of mental disorders.Conclusions: The research results indicated that group members exchanged useful information (35.43%), described their current difficulties they were experiencing (32.33%), shared their own experiences (10.53%), and also published information on what had helped them manage the difficult feelings and situations they had been experiencing (6.39%). However, we also identified risky statements and threatening recommendations in posts and comments. Based on the results, we outlined the possibilities of online field worker interventions and described techniques of interventions that the professional can use for the benefit of group members.

scholarly journals The Oxford Handbook of Cyberpsychology

2018 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Impression Management ◽  
Video Gaming ◽  
Online Research ◽  
Daily Lives ◽  
Self Presentation ◽  
Online Groups ◽  
The Core ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Management Technology ◽  
And Behavior

Humans are becoming increasingly reliant on interconnected technologies to go about their daily lives in the personal and professional spheres. From finding romance, to conducting businesses entirely online, receiving health services, shopping, banking, and gaming, the Internet and World Wide Web open up a world of possibilities to people across the globe. Understanding the psychological processes underlying and influencing the thinking, interpretation, and behavior associated with this online interconnectivity is the core premise of Cyberpsychology. This book explores a wide range of cyberpsychological processes and activities through the research and writings of some of the world’s leading cyberpsychology experts. The book covers a broad range of topics spanning the key areas of research interest in this emerging field of enquiry and will be of interest to those who have only recently discovered the discipline as well as more seasoned cyberpsychology researchers and teachers. The book contains eight sections, and includes contributions spanning the breadth of current academic and public interest. Topics include: online research methods, self-presentation and impression management, technology across the lifespan, interaction and interactivity, online groups and communities, social media, health and technology, video gaming, and cybercrime and cybersecurity.

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