Download full text
(external source)
Citation Suggestion
Please use the following Persistent Identifier (PID) to cite this document:
https://doi.org/10.17645/mac.v10i2.5129
Exports for your reference manager
Online Neighborhood Networks: The Relationship Between Online Communication Practices and Neighborhood Dynamics
[journal article]
Abstract This article builds upon communication infrastructure theory and investigates how communication practices on online neighborhood networks (ONNs) relate to the social cohesion of neighborhood communities. Specifically, we study the hyperlocal social media platform Hoplr, which provides ad-free ONNs i... view more
This article builds upon communication infrastructure theory and investigates how communication practices on online neighborhood networks (ONNs) relate to the social cohesion of neighborhood communities. Specifically, we study the hyperlocal social media platform Hoplr, which provides ad-free ONNs in which neighbors can communicate with one another. Local governments can subscribe to Hoplr to communicate with their residents and engage them for community and public participation purposes. This study is based on an online survey of Hoplr members (N = 3,055) from 150 randomly selected ONNs. Social cohesion is disentangled as a combination of social support, a sense of community, reciprocal exchange, and social trust. We investigated social cohesion differences at the neighborhood level in relation to self-reported types of ONN communication practices (shared interest, supportive communication, and both tangible and informational support mobilization). The results reveal the limited value of quantified behavioral data to explain differences in neighborhood social cohesion. However, interesting patterns are revealed between different communication practices and neighborhood social cohesion, such as the importance of trivial storytelling and information exchange practices for enhancing trust, reciprocal support, and a sense of community. At the same time, a reversed relation appears when ONNs are considered explicit information exchange platforms. With these insights, we enhance the theoretical understanding of ONNs in relation to neighborhood social cohesion and within a broader repertoire of neighborhood communication infrastructures.... view less
Keywords
neighborhood; social network; social relations; place of residence; social cohesion; communication behavior
Classification
Sociology of Settlements and Housing, Urban Sociology
Interactive, electronic Media
Free Keywords
communication infrastructure theory; neighborhood social cohesion; online neighborhood networks; social cohesion
Document language
English
Publication Year
2022
Page/Pages
p. 108-118
Journal
Media and Communication, 10 (2022) 2
Issue topic
Impact of Social Media on Social Cohesion
ISSN
2183-2439
Status
Published Version; peer reviewed