Facebook User Research Using a Probability‐Based Sample and Behavioral Data1. Issue 4 (10th January 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wells, Tom; Link, Michael
• Is Part Of: Journal of computer-mediated communication. Volume 19:Issue 4(2014:Jul.)
• Page Start: 1042
• Page End: 1052
• Publication Date: 2014-01-10
• Subjects: Telematics -- Periodicals; Computer networks -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Communication -- Periodicals; 302.20285
• DOI: 10.1111/jcc4.12058
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1083-6101

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main" id="jcc412058-abs-0001"> <title>Abstract</title> <p id="jcc412058-para-0003"> <italic>Research on Facebook users is often based on small convenience samples and on usage data collected through survey self‐reports. The current research contributes to Facebook user research, as it is based on a large, nationally representative, probability‐based, U.S. sample with Internet usage data collected from meters. Results revealed that 50% of sample members are recent Facebook users. However, within this group, there is wide variation in amount of usage between heavy, medium, and light users. Finally, based on a multivariate analysis, Facebook users are significantly more likely to be women, teens, whites, and adults with at least a high school diploma. These demographic patterns apply to heavy, medium, and light Facebook users</italic>.</p> </abstract>