Open Access Original Research Social Sciences (miscellaneous) Social Media Usage Affects Family Communication Among Chinese Adolescence

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to see how social media usage affected family communication among Chinese adolescents. The study's overarching goal was to determine the influence of social networks on family communication among Chinese adolescents. The study aimed to determine how frequently Chinese adolescents used social media and how this might affect their family interactions. Design / Methodology / Approach: The data were obtained from seven Chinese respondents who comprised the sample. In-depth interviews were used as a data collection tool. The data collected were thematically analysed. Main Findings: The findings reveal that Chinese adolescents spend more time interacting with friends and social networks online than speaking with their families. They frequently seek mentoring, advice, and emotional and social support from online friends. According to the study findings, adolescents' personalities significantly impede effective family interaction and communication. Research limitations/implications: The findings show that social media significantly impacts family communication. Future research could also look at the attitudes and behaviours of parents and adult children on social media. Originality/value: This research is unique in that it looks at the Chinese community's family communication patterns on social media. The findings of this study will benefit Chinese society because family communication serves as a crucible for society.