How can social media contribute to friendship jealousy and conflict among early adolescents?

Joris Van Ouytsel, Debra De Groote

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study examines early adolescents’ perceptions of how social media can contribute to jealousy and conflict within their friendships. We conducted nine focus groups with a total of 51 participants between 13 and 16 years of age (M = 14.35; SD = 0.74). The results indicated that strong social expectations guided early adolescents’ interactions with posted content on social media. When these expectations are not met, conflicts can arise. Additionally, the perception of being ignored through text messages can lead to frustration. Images of friends with other friends and posts of activities with others could cause feelings of friendship jealousy. These findings are discussed in the context of adolescent development.

Original languageEnglish (US)
JournalQualitative Research Reports in Communication
DOIs
StateAccepted/In press - 2024

Keywords

  • early adolescents
  • friendship
  • friendship conflict
  • friendship jealousy
  • Snapchat

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Communication

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