Journal of Internet Computing and Services (인터넷정보학회논문지)

Korean Society for Internet Information (한국인터넷정보학회)
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Direct and Indirect Effects of Older Adults' Use of Online Communities on Socialization and Social Isolation

노령층의 온라인 커뮤니티 이용이 사회화와 사회적 고립감에 미치는 직·간접 효과

  • Cho, Jaehee (School of Media & Communication, Chung-Ang University) ;
  • Cho, Haeyoung (School of Media & Communication, Chung-Ang University)
  • Received : 2016.09.12
  • Accepted : 2017.03.10
  • Published : 2017.04.30
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Abstract

This study explored the potential associations among older adults' online community uses, socialization, and social isolation. Results from the hierarchical regression analysis indicated that the quality and size of personal networks composed of online community members positively influences older adults' socialization and reduces social isolation. However, the frequency of meeting with online community members in offline settings was not significantly associated with socialization. Moreover, the amount of time using online communities indirectly and significantly affected social isolation, mediated by socialization. Results from this study address the positive roles of online community uses in overcoming psychological difficulties among elderly people.

본 연구는 노령층의 온라인 커뮤니티 이용과 사회화 그리고 사회적 고립감 사이의 잠재적 관계에 대해 탐색해 보고자 했다. 위계적 회귀분석의 분석결과에 따르면, 온라인 커뮤니티 회원으로 구성된 개인적 네트워크의 크기와 질은 사회화에 긍정적인 영향을 미쳤으며 사회적 고립감 또한 저하시켰다. 그러나 온라인 커뮤니티의 회원들과의 오프라인 미팅의 유의미한 효과는 발견되지 않았다. 이에 더해, 온라인 커뮤니티를 이용하는 시간은 사회화로 매개되어 사회적 고립감에 유의미한 영향을 미쳤다. 이러한 연구결과는 제한된 사회적 관계로 인해 발생할 수 있는 심리적 문제들을 극복하는데 있어서 온라인 커뮤니티의 이용이 긍정적인 역할을 할 수 있음을 시사한다.

Keywords

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