Date of Award
5-2007
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Legacy Department
Applied Sociology
Committee Chair/Advisor
Witte, James
Abstract
This paper examines the characteristics of online social networks. The researcher collected the data used in the study between January 3, 2007 and January 10, 2007. 150 networks were collected from MySpace.com, an online social networking site, along with six features from the profiles of those in the networks--race/ethnicity, education, religion, reasons for joining, profile background, and music. Two regression models were used to determine the effects of homophily on network density and network embeddedness.
The regression models show that homophily for race/ethnicity, religion, music, and reasons for joining did not significantly affect network embeddedness or network density. Background and education homophily were the only significant variables in the models. These results support current research that suggests individuals are becoming friends online for very different reasons than in face-to-face contexts.
Recommended Citation
Turchi, Jennifer, "Homophily and online networks: Young adult relationships in MySpace" (2007). All Theses. 131.
https://tigerprints.clemson.edu/all_theses/131