Introduction to social media and age identity

Social networking sites represent a key development in digital media. These are online platforms that enable users to build and maintain relationships, offering instant global contact through features like messaging, sharing updates, and forming virtual communities.

Patterns of social media use among young people

Young people often lead in adopting digital technologies, using them for frequent, on-the-go communication with peers. This high engagement reflects their comfort with digital tools and the role these play in their social lives.

Key statistics on young people's digital habits

• In the UK, over 90 per cent of individuals aged 16 to 24 send at least one text message daily.
• Around 73 per cent of this age group use social networking sites for messaging and relationship maintenance.
• On average, UK teenagers send approximately 60 texts per day, far exceeding the general UK average of about 50 texts per week.

Sociological explanations for young people's high uptake of digital communication

Sociologists offer several reasons why young people embrace digital technologies more readily than older generations. These explanations focus on generational differences, skill acquisition, and social transitions.

Key reasons for high engagement

• Generational proficiency - Each new generation becomes more skilled and reliant on digital media, as argued by Boyle.
• Receptiveness to new skills - Young people are often more open to mastering the demands of emerging digital tools, according to Boyle, which encourages frequent use.
• Navigating public life - Involvement in online networks aids the shift from adolescence to adulthood. Sociologists suggest platforms like Facebook reflect real-world social dynamics, both positive and negative, helping young people learn to handle public interactions.
• Increased access - Parents now invest more in providing children with digital devices, making technology readily available.
• Greater free time - With fewer responsibilities compared to adults, young people have more opportunities to engage with digital communication.

Impacts of digital communication on young people's identity

Turkle, a sociologist, argues that young people become mentally 'tethered' to their devices. This means they frequently check updates and connections, leading to a dependency on external reactions.

Consequences of being 'tethered'

• Reduced autonomy - Constant online feedback can weaken the ability to form an independent self, as thoughts and feelings seem incomplete without digital approval from others.
• Identity validation - Young people may rely on likes, comments, and shares to confirm their experiences, potentially prioritising virtual responses over personal reflection.

Social media use among older people

In contrast to young people, older generations have traditionally shown lower engagement with digital communication, though this is changing. Factors like skills, interests, and practical needs influence their adoption rates.

Patterns and barriers to use

• Nearly 80 per cent of UK households have internet access, but this drops to under 35 per cent for households of older people.
• A 2015 Ofcom survey indicates increasing use among 'silver surfers' (older internet users), driven by greater affluence allowing device purchases.
• Practical benefits, such as online shopping, appeal to older users by simplifying daily tasks.

Berry's research highlights why some older people avoid digital tools. Older non-users primarily cited lack of skills, disinterest, or psychological hurdles, rather than financial costs.

Benefits of social media for older people's identity and wellbeing

Recent research suggests that greater digital engagement can positively affect older people's self-perception and health. This occurs through reduced isolation and enhanced cognitive skills.

Study on elderly social media use in Britain and Italy

• Participants - The sample included older, potentially vulnerable individuals from Britain and Italy who were trained in social media use.
• Results - Most participants with devices and skills reported feeling less isolated, thanks to connections with family, friends, and interest-based groups. Training improved cognitive abilities and boosted self-competence.
• Conclusions - Social media use could enhance mental health and physical wellbeing by fostering a sense of connection and capability.