ABSTRACT
With ongoing technological development and innovation, digital communication and sociality are constantly in flux. Van Dijck argues that ‘sociality is not simply “rendered technological” by moving to an online space; rather coded structures are profoundly altering the nature of people's connections, creations and interactions’. Digital media platforms generate multiple ways to participate and communicate in contemporary society. Platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, Skype and Steam have become essential tools for communication and entertainment for people of all ages. Using digital platforms, then, raises critical questions about how to exploit the possibilities of the interface while balancing the dynamics and demands of social relations. Family played a distinct role for the participants on Facebook, but the engagements only formed a relatively small proportion of those that took place. One purpose for using Facebook was to help smooth transitions as life changed for the young people.
