How do Welsh voices resound in virtual space? Facebook calling for identity and self classification

Gwen Bouvier

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

This study highlights the importance of researching the internet’s role in the lives of young Welshmen and women. It focuses on how 18-20 y/o students use Facebook, a popular online social network site, in articulating their identities. The data presented gauged the type of uses, the kind of access, and the applications used by the respondents, as well as the nature of their ‘friends’ contacts. The analysis suggests that the networking site constitutes a resource for formulating a sense of identity, expressed only when people are called upon to do so (which ties into work by Bhaba, 1994). Whereas the kind of socialising on Facebook helps to develop and maintain many aspects of (Welsh) identity, it also constitutes an opportunity to look into the categories people draw upon to define their identities. This research is a pilot for a larger, cross-cultural comparative study reflecting on the uses of Facebook in ‘small nations’ or regions in Europe (Wales) and the Middle East (the U.A.E.).
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationN/A
Publication statusUnpublished - 1 Jan 1990
Event Cyfrwng conference - Location unknown - please update
Duration: 6 May 20107 May 2010

Conference

Conference Cyfrwng conference
Period6/05/107/05/10

Keywords

  • identity
  • welshness
  • facebook

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