Abstract: This study is a qualitative survey on the influence of social media networking on the most basic and important level of communication which is interpersonal face-to-face communication. This type of communication is the intimacy communication which is vital for the wellbeing of family which is a crucial human institution. This threatened form of communication is key in conflicts management and reconciliation. Family as an institution determines the success or failure of other institutions in the human society and interpersonal communication is key to this. The main purpose of this study was to investigate if the current influx of social media has sacrificed or rather compromised interpersonal communication at face-to-face level and what recommendations could be made to mitigate on it. The following theories were analyzed to check on their relevance in this context; Face-Negotiation Theory, Social Exchange Theory Social Penetration Theory and Uses and gratification theory. It is important to note that theories influence the way people think, interpret their world, and the actions they take. We develop theories about our environment to help organize and interpret our experiences. The research design that was used to provide a framework for this study was qualitative survey. Convenience non-probability sampling technique was use to have families that were engaged in interviews and focused group discussions. The results revealed that social networking engagement has negatively influenced the family dyadic communication hence affecting badly the family interrelationship.
Keywords: Social media, Interpersonal relationships, Face to face communication, Interpersonal communication, Qualitative research, Face negotiation, Uses and gratification theory, Social exchange theory and Social penetration theory.
Title: Social Media Networking and Its Influence on Interpersonal Face To Face Oral Communication at Family Level: A Qualitative Study of Selected Families in Eldoret Town; Kenya
Author: Dr. Langat Andrewhris
International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research
ISSN 2348-3164 (online)
Research publish journals
