Although the Baron reading was a specific study concerned with AOL instant messaging away messages, I can certainly see how its findings apply to other social media channels (or Social Awareness Streams). The idea that users construct images of themselves for the purpose of self-presentation manifests itself all over the place on Facebook and Twitter. The Naanman, Boase and Lai research, for instance, found that the majority of Twitter users focus on the self when Tweeting. I credit it to narcissism and egocentricity. As a random sample, the first message in my Facebook feed right now reads “Looking forward to a Walking Dead marathon tonight at the (REMOVED NAME) house. Perfect Friday night!” That status means absolutely nothing to anyone else, save for the person who typed it and/or the people in his/her household. So what was the purpose of this person’s post? I would conjecture that he or she is determined to let other people know (or lead them to believe) that he or she is really happy with their evening schedule (and possibly with their life in general). Baron remarked that “online sites are also places for constructing images of how you wish others to perceive you.”
The Baron study also found that some users intentionally mis-represent themselves. Apparently, Manti T’eo missed this memo. I especially enjoyed this example in the Baron article: “dinner with Mark and dancing all night” , which really meant at home alone watching TV. CMC affords us the ability to create our own identities and, in some instances, lie to make things look better.
The content analysis section of the Baron article found two main categories of messages within AIM IM away messages, one of which was entertainment. Baron also noted that “more often than not, if there’s an opportunity for humor, the user takes it.” The article said the motivation to entertain or be humorous was related to the opportunity CMC affords for self-expression. I’d be interested to see that topic explored further, because as an avid Twitter user it does seem that humor is used a great deal. The Davison article, which analyzed the definition and spread of memes, also noted that humor is one of the most common types of Internet memes. The article on memes was interesting because I never officially knew what a meme was before reading this article. I had an idea, but I wasn’t certain on the exact qualifications. For instance, I did not realize that emoticons were considered memes. Their use and replication is so widespread in large part because they are easy and quick to use.
I too think that narcissism plays a driving role in much of the content on social media platforms. One of the questions I think is relevant to discuss is did the internet create this rise is narcissistic behavior or was it always a latent need waiting for an outlet? Also, for those that choose to falsify their information online, whether it be in their identity information or just current activities (as you mentioned from the Baron reading), does it really effect the perception of that person from the standpoint of others? Does the girl lying about being out at night really make her more attractive to others reading her away message or does it just make her feel better about herself? Also, do individuals who would feel guilty about lying about that kind of activity to someone’s face, feel the same remorse when they do it online?
I agree with Baron that “some users intentionally mis-represent themselves.” You are also very right when you said that most people lie online. I believe that it is natural not to want to let everyone get deep into your privacy. I don’t see anything wrong with telling my family members that I had a great day where as, in fact, my day was the worst ever. Sometimes we do that out of our love and concern to the others and not let them worried about us;especially, if those people thousands and thousands miles away and anyway they won’t be able to help you even if you needed their help. So I don’t consider this situation a big fat lie but only a white lie that won’t hurt anyone.
I agree that most people lie online but there is nothing to prevent it, it’s actually easy. I don’t use Facebook or Twitter but your comments about the status on Facebook is so true. I always wonder why do people update their status to inform of what they are or plan to do no one actually cares.
It is true that people post things that means nothing to most people, but it does show something about themselves. It probably shows how satisfied the person is with what they are doing. However, like many people lie, it could also be a lie, and maybe the person is not doing that at all, but wants people to think they are satisfied with their evening, when in reality maybe they are not. It is so hard to tell now a days who is telling a lie and who is not.
People also tell to much of the truth sometimes as well. There are just as many people over detailing “real life” situations on social media as well as lying about their activities. Social media allows people to create their own self image.