The properties of Twitter network communications among teenagers

Abstract

We study, quantitatively, for the first time, the traits of Twitter teenager networks. The results are compared with general population users, and show that teenagers behave uniquely. Teens tend to follow more users and increase friendships over time. They tend to friend individuals online who they already know offline. Teenagers also use Twitter as a news media and form supportive and dense communities. These results shed new light on the attributes of teenage communities. We can then utilize these ideas to find solutions to emerging problems involving the massive use of social media. For example, Twitter can be used as a positive tool for the prevention of bad habits among teens.

Wrist-bound Guanxi, Jiazu, and Kuolie: Unpacking Chinese Adolescent Smartwatch-Mediated Socialization

“…Our research delves into Chinese adolescents' smartwatch-mediated offline and online social activities, expanding on prior studies centered on computers or smartphones [2,15,95,113]. Overall, our findings align with the existing literature on adolescent online socialization.…”

“…However, by age 16, academic and high school responsibilities reduce their interest in smartwatch-based social activities, which many view as immature. This trend mirrors that of other social media platforms [8,113,116].…”