Abstract

Text messaging is a significant social phenomenon that merits investigation. Communications theories are well suited to this type of research because text messaging serves as both mediated communication and interpersonal communication. This kind of research can also contribute to a deeper understanding of communication differences between genders. The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether there are gender differences in the use of text messaging and, if so, what the differences are. Participants for the study were recruited via convenience sampling. The sample consisted of 27 participants ages 18--35; 14 were female and 13 were male. Data were collected from the participants via the focus group approach. Two of the groups consisted of females, and two of the groups consisted of males. Transcripts of the focus group sessions were analyzed using the constant comparative approach. This approach involves continually sorting through the data, comparing categories, and analyzing the resulting information. Areas of difference between the genders include selecting recipients, gathering information, seeking entertainment (trolling), ending relationships, arguing, seeking privacy and exclusion, using text shorthand and slang, remaining alert, and using text messaging for dating. These findings provide new insight in the areas of text messaging and gender studies.

Degree

College and Department

Fine Arts and Communications; Communications

Rights

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