Chapter 1: Introduction................................................................................................................1
1.1. Background...........................................................................................................................1
1.2. Statement of the Problem .....................................................................................................2
1.3. Aim, Objective and Research Questions..............................................................................2
1.4 Justification for the Research ................................................................................................3
1.5. Methodology.........................................................................................................................3
1.6. Definitions ............................................................................................................................4
1.7. Limitations and Scope ..........................................................................................................5
1.8. Outline of the Thesis ............................................................................................................5
1.9. Conclusion............................................................................................................................7
Chapter 2: Literature Review ......................................................................................................8
2.1. Information Behavior ...........................................................................................................9
2.1.1. Research on Information Behavior..........................................................................10
2.2. Social Networks..................................................................................................................11
2.2.1. Towards a “Serious Dimension” for the Use of Social Networks...........................14
2.2.2. Studying social networks use and perceptions ........................................................16
2.3. Research on Information Behavior in Social Networks.....................................................18
2.3.1 Research Frameworks...............................................................................................18
2.3.1.1 Social Network Theory and Analysis................................................................18
2.3.1.2 Examining Virtual Communities.......................................................................19
2.3.1.3 Understanding Social Reference .......................................................................21
2.3.2. Issues of Web 2.0 and Social Networks..................................................................22
2.3.2.1. Trust..................................................................................................................22
2.3.2.2. Decision Making ..............................................................................................23
2.3.2.3. Users’ Satisfaction............................................................................................24
2.3.2.4. Information Overload .......................................................................................25
2.3.2.5. Quality Control.................................................................................................26
2.3.2.6. Loss of Identity.................................................................................................27
2.3.2.7. Permanence.......................................................................................................27
2.3.2.8. Repackaging .....................................................................................................28
2.3.2.9. Crowdsourcing .................................................................................................29
2.3.2.10. Privacy............................................................................................................30
2.3.2.11. The Clash with the Real World ......................................................................31
2.3.3. Research on Social Networking Sites......................................................................34
2.3.3.1. eBay..................................................................................................................35
2.3.3.2. Gnutella ............................................................................................................35
2.3.3.3. CiteULike .........................................................................................................36
2.3.3.4. Social Ties........................................................................................................36
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2.3.3.5. Computer-mediated Communication Groups...................................................37
2.3.3.6. Internet Discussion Groups ..............................................................................37
2.3.3.7. Facebook...........................................................................................................38
2.3.3.8. MySpace ...........................................................................................................39
2.3.3.9. MOSAICA........................................................................................................40
2.4. Conclusion..........................................................................................................................40
Chapter 3: Methodology............................................................................................................42
3.1. Aims, Objectives and Research Questions.........................................................................42
3.2. Methods for the Collection of the Data ..............................................................................42
3.3. The Sample.........................................................................................................................43
3.4. Interview Topics and Questions.........................................................................................44
3.5. Ethical Considerations........................................................................................................45
3.6. Methods for the Analysis of the Data.................................................................................45
3.7. Limitations..........................................................................................................................48
3.8. Trustworthiness of the Enquiry ..........................................................................................49
3.9. Conclusion..........................................................................................................................49
Chapter 4: Data Analysis and Discussion .................................................................................50
4.1. Data Analysis......................................................................................................................50
4.1.1 The Different Roles of Social Networks..................................................................50
4.1.2. The Friendship Factor..............................................................................................52
4.1.3. A Question of Purpose.............................................................................................55
4.1.4. Sharing is Caring .....................................................................................................58
4.1.5. Social Networks Used .............................................................................................61
4.1.6. The Issue of Trust....................................................................................................64
4.1.7. On the Negative Views............................................................................................71
4.1.8. The Wisdom of the Crowds.....................................................................................73
4.1.9. Quality Control........................................................................................................77
4.1.10. Information Needs and Overload ..........................................................................80
4.1.11. The Problem of Permanence and Volatility of Information..................................84
4.1.12. Reblogging and Repackaging................................................................................85
4.1.13. On Privacy .............................................................................................................88
4.1.14. Organizations and Social Networking...................................................................91
4.1.15. Communication vs. Alienation..............................................................................95
4.1.16. Negative Consequences.........................................................................................97
4.2. Trends, Similarities and Differences: A Summary...........................................................100
4.2.1. Social Networks do Fulfill Various Roles.............................................................100
4.2.2. There Should be a Reason to Add Someone .........................................................101
4.2.3. Social Networks can be Used for Various Purposes.............................................101
4.1.4. Share Information but not Much Sensitive and Personal Information ..................101
4.2.5. Social Networks Used ...........................................................................................102
4.2.6. Trust is on People ..................................................................................................102
4.2.7. Social Networks are Part of Society......................................................................102
4.2.8. Crowds can be Wise ....................................................................