Adolescents' perceptions of using likes, comments, and other reactions – a qualitative investigation

With the majority of young people using social media as a primary form of communication with friends and family, it is becoming increasingly important to understand how adolescents perceive their own and others’ online behaviour. Participants (N=34) aged 11-15 years took part in focus group discussions exploring their perceptions of the communication intentions of using online interpersonal feedback, specifically the use of ‘reactions’ (e.g., likes and comments). A thematic analysis of the transcripts indicated that young people are using social media reactions to (i) form and maintain impressions online, (ii) give, receive, and withhold support from others, and (iii) express themselves and tailor their social media experience. Findings show that adolescents are aware of the online social norms surrounding the use of reactions and how the number of reactions relates to their mood and feelings of self-worth.