The Reasons for Non-Use of Social Networking Websites by University Students
Although social networking websites (SNSs, especially Facebook) have become highly popular with youths, some university students do not want to participate in such sites. This study explores the underlying reasons for high-tech university students' non-use of social networking websites. The study group (n=20) consisted of 18 to 25-year-old undergraduate students, who were selected by the purposive sampling method. Data were collected from two large state universities in Turkey. Facebook, as one of the most popular social networking websites, was selected as a study context. Qualitative research methods were used in the data collection and analysis processes. The primary reasons for not using social networking websites were that they were perceived to be a waste of time, or an unne' cessary tool; that they might lead to an addiction; that they might violate privacy concerns or share unnecessary infor' mation; and that they might invoke family concerns. Additionally, the findings indicated that most of the students did not trust virtual friendships, and did not like sharing photographs and political views online. This identification of non-user students' attitudes about SNSs will help us to better understand individual perceptions and experiences relating to these social services.
Social networking websites, Facebook, university students, dilemmas, social media, social services.
1. Introduction
The Internet is now very popular, and it has powerfully affected almost every aspect of our world, from commerce to education. It has even changed many people's daily lifestyles (Martin, Diaz, San' Cristobal, Gil, Castro & Peire, 2011; Ceyhan, 2008). Some of the biggest Internet effects involve communi' cations among people. Social networking websites (SNSs) offer a new way to understand, connect with, and learn information about other people (Carpenter, Green &- LaFiam, 2011). SNSs are now often used for communications, to build relationships and to make new friends (Pew,
Social networking websites, Facebook, university students, dilemmas, social media, social services.
1. Introduction
The Internet is now very popular, and it has powerfully affected almost every aspect of our world, from commerce to education. It has even changed many people's daily lifestyles (Martin, Diaz, San' Cristobal, Gil, Castro & Peire, 2011; Ceyhan, 2008). Some of the biggest Internet effects involve communi' cations among people. Social networking websites (SNSs) offer a new way to understand, connect with, and learn information about other people (Carpenter, Green &- LaFiam, 2011). SNSs are now often used for communications, to build relationships and to make new friends (Pew,