Relationships

Question 1

Why did MILLER argue that digital communications enable people to maintain existing relationships?

Answer 1

‘The facebook effect’-
Facebook strengthens existing relationships, as it allows people to get in touch (even if miles apart), and keep updated by posts

Question 2

Give at least two pieces of sociological evidence to support the argument that digital communications enable people to make new personal relationships

Answer 2

• CARTER- cybercity- found virtual worlds enable formation of new relationships- online relationships equally as important as offline ones
• Dating apps (bumble, etc) increase chances of meeting future partner
• Online communities encourage relationships (e.g. mumsnet)

Question 3

Using an example, explain how digital communications enable people to increase their social capital

Answer 3

Linkedin- allows people to develop professional relationships. Find useful social contacts and networks to secure a well paid job

Question 4

People’s offline relationships suffer as a result of time spent online. Support this argument using the ideas of TURKLE

Answer 4

We are ‘alone together’- in the same room, but on devices. Quality time spent with loved ones is reduced

Question 5

People’s offline relationships suffer as a result of time spent online. Support this argument using the ideas of CLAYTON

Answer 5

More time spent on Twitter, the more likely people were to report Twitter-related conflict within their relationship (contact exes, liking photos, etc)- result in arguments or divorce

Question 6

People’s offline relationships suffer as a result of time spent online. Support this argument using the ideas of PALMER

Answer 6

‘Toxic childhood’- technological an cultural change have a negative impact on child development. E.g. youtube kids and gaming increases the issue. Kids spend too much time online, less time developing skills, e.g. communication and language

Question 7

The quality of online relationships may not be very high. Support this argument using the ideas of GRANOVETTER

Answer 7

Relationship strength measured by amount of time spend together, and reciprocity. Facebook relationships= weak ties, superficial and fake- hardly know each other

Question 8

People may enter into negative relationships online. Support this argument using the ideas of BAUDRILLARD

Answer 8

We’re living in an ‘age simulation’- hard to tell real from fake. Online relationships often result in catfishing or scamming. Possible grooming