Considering Cultural Factors in Emerging Adult Use of Communication Technologies

Abstract

Focus groups with young adult college students (N = 13, 8 females, 5 males, Mage = 20.46, SD = 1.27) from different ethnic and generational backgrounds were conducted to examine how Asian American and European American young adults may use digital media for social support and how they may interact with specific social partners (family members, romantic partners and friends). Findings suggest that participants, regardless of cultural background, feel greater ease with disclosing to family members and romantic partners. Intimacy in friendships varied greatly, required more impression management, and, therefore, was often facilitated by digital media. Individual and cultural differences may also explain differences in communication patterns with friends. Future directions and practical implications are discussed.