"What do they snapchat about?" Patterns of use in time-limited instant messaging service. (January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Piwek, Lukasz; Joinson, Adam
• Is Part Of: Computers in human behavior. Volume 54(2016)
• Page Start: 358
• Page End: 367
• Publication Date: 2016-01
• Subjects: Instant messaging (IM) -- Social network sites -- Snapchat -- Critical incidence technique -- Social capital; Interactive computer systems -- Periodicals; Man-machine systems -- Periodicals; 004.019
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2015.08.026
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0747-5632

Abstract

Abstract: The use of Snapchat – a time-limited instant messaging service – has been rapidly rising amongst adolescents. However, the exact nature of Snapchat use remains difficult to examine due to the self-destructive nature of content sent and received via this service. We report an online survey conducted with the use of a memory sampling method to enquire about the specific details of the very last image or video each participant sent and received via Snapchat . We found that users mainly share 'selfies', typically embed text and 'doodles' with photos they share, use it mostly at home, and primarily for communication with close friends and family as an 'easier and funnier' alternative to other instant messaging services. We also found that high intensity of Snapchat use was more associated with bonding rather than bridging social capital. We discuss those findings in the context of existing studies on the use of instant messaging services and social networking sites. Highlights: Online survey with memory sampling method was used to examine the last image sent and received via Snapchat . Snapchat is easy-to-use and highly playful alternative to other IM services. Snapchat is used to privately communicate and share content – primarily selfies with doodles. Snapchat is used with a small group of "strong ties" – close friends, partners and family. Snapchat appears to be more useful for bonding rather than bridging of social capital.