Journal of Culture-Communication Studies

Journal of Culture-Communication Studies

A phenomenological study of the impact of social networks on the feeling of social security (Case study: those born in the 70s)

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
mahdi hajiahmadi 1
Nazanin Malekian 2
1 PhD Candidate in Communication Sciences Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
2 Associate Professor of Communication Sciences Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. (Corresponding Author)
10.22083/jccs.2024.459444.3876
Abstract
Introduction: Although many studies have confirmed the impact of social networks on the sense of social security, what has been neglected is the transformation of the role and status of certain components of social security and the reasons behind these changes. This study aims to investigate the effects of social networks on the elements and components of social security and to trace the root causes and dynamics of these transformations.
Methodology: This interpretive qualitative study employs a phenomenological approach. The statistical population consists of individuals born in the 1970s, selected due to their frequent interaction with and tangible influence from virtual social networks in daily life. Given the dispersed and anonymous nature of the population, purposive snowball sampling was used. Participants were required to meet two criteria: a minimum of two hours of daily engagement with virtual networks and at least a bachelor’s degree. Theoretical saturation determined the sample size, achieved after 27 in-depth semi-structured interviews. Participants detailed their lived experiences with social networks during these interviews. Validity and reliability were assessed using the Lincoln and Guba evaluation framework. Data analysis followed the seven-step model developed by Klaizi and Dickelman, rooted in Husserlian phenomenology.
Findings: Phenomenological analysis of the interviews revealed three overarching themes: Macro-Theme 1: Social Order and Cohesion: A serious consequence of social networks is the fading of face-to-face interactions and the resulting reduced interdependence among individuals. Disconnected relationships in virtual spaces hold little significance for users, as most interactions are non-purposeful. Since social cohesion requires mutual value recognition and obligation, the prevalence of artificial identities and lack of social controls in virtual spaces hinder its achievement. Consequently, social order and cohesion face challenges due to the erosion of these foundational elements. Macro-Theme 2: Social Health and Security: Social health, critical for mitigating societal harms and maintaining security, is compromised by individuals’ inability to integrate into social frameworks. Fear and insecurity degrade quality of life, divert energy toward self-protection, and reduce participation in beneficial social activities. This exacerbates distrust within society, further destabilizing social security. Macro-Theme 3: Life Satisfaction and Social Welfare: Life satisfaction, though a demographic indicator, reflects objective socioeconomic conditions. Social welfare assumes the measurability and comparability of individual well-being, balancing personal and collective welfare. Employment and income are pivotal, as survival precedes planning for happiness. Social networks, however, highlight disparities in welfare access, indirectly shaping perceptions of security and satisfaction.
Conclusion: The impact of virtual social networks on social security components is highly significant. Despite their advantages in facilitating communication, education, and information dissemination, their implementation in the studied context often results in negative outcomes due to inadequate prerequisites. Notably, social networks have advanced socio-political development by promoting transparency in governance and exposing governmental policies to public scrutiny. They have also compelled governments to address corruption reactively, reducing opportunities for secrecy. Media’s role in clarifying power dynamics and social phenomena empowers citizens and fosters democratic governance. A critical positive outcome is the enhancement of educational and informational justice. However, power structures exploit networks’ persuasive capabilities to manipulate user emotions, a consequence of inadequate regulatory policies rather than inherent network flaws.
Keywords
Social security
phenomenology
network society
social networks
born in the 70s
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