Perceived Impressions From Facebook Statuses
Kristine Kastenbaum*, Melinda K. Gross, Michaela M. Hoffman, and Elizabeth A. Necka
Dr. Michele Breault, Faculty Mentor
We examined the impressions that Facebook and other similar social networking websites are changing the way in which people interact. In particular, people form impressions of others using the limited information available online. In this study, we focused on the impressions that people form of friends and acquaintances based on posted Facebook status. We examined frequency of posting as well as post content (particularly, appropriateness of self-disclosure) to determine how social networking can create both a favorable and disadvantageous impression of an individual. Subjects were shown mock Facebook pages constructed that varied on frequency of update, amount of emotional disclosure in status, and gender of the Facebook profile. They evaluated these profiles for perceived personality characteristics of the profile owner, as well as how favorable they regarded these profiles and people. Results will further define the role that Facebook plays in the way humans relate to one another.
Keywords: Facebook, Social networking, First impressions, Self-disclosure, Personality
Topic(s):Psychology
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 45-4
Location: MG 1000
Time: 2:00