Effects of instant messaging features on long-distance relationships

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Perustieteiden korkeakoulu | Master's thesis
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Date

2023-06-12

Department

Major/Subject

Human-Computer Interaction

Mcode

SCI3097

Degree programme

Master's Programme in Computer, Communication and Information Sciences

Language

en

Pages

45 + 3

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Abstract

As long-distance relationships become increasingly prevalent, instant messaging features like “read receipts” and “last seen online” have become integral to communication. However, there is limited research on the impact of these features on the emotional well-being of individuals in long distance relationships. This study was aimed to investigate whether the use of read receipts and last seen online features cause negative feelings in people in long distance relationships. A survey-based methodology was employed, consisting of 7-point Likert-style questions, categorical questions, and an open-ended question. The survey was distributed through various online channels and garnered a total of 113 responses. The study employed several statistical techniques, including Cronbach's alpha for assessing internal consistency and reliability of the survey items, and descriptive analysis, coding analysis, and inferential analysis, to analyze the collected data. The results of the study indicate a significant correlation between the use of read receipts and last seen online features and negative emotions experienced by individuals in long distance relationships. Specifically, the study found that individuals check their partner's last seen status to determine when they were online and feel anxious or stressed when their partner has read their message but not responded. The coding analysis of the open-ended question highlighted themes related to privacy

Description

Supervisor

Oulasvirta, Antti

Thesis advisor

Oulasvirta, Antti

Keywords

statistical analysis, long-distance relationships, instant messaging, social media, descriptive analysis, inferential analysis

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https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:aalto-202306184082

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[dipl] Perustieteiden korkeakoulu / SCI