Interaction in Virtual Social Networks and its Impact on Ethnic Identity, A Case Study of the Lak Ethnicity

Subject Areas : Journal of Cultural Management

Mehrdad  Namdari ¹ (Bachelor of Science in Sociology, Islamic Azad University, Boroujerd Branch, Borujerd, Iran (Corresponding Author) [e-mail])

Received: 2017-10-09 Accepted : 2019-02-01 Published : 2018-09-23

Keywords: Ethnic discriminator, Ethnic communication, Ethnic Identity, Virtual Social Networks,

Abstract :

Introduction and Purpose of the Research: Ethnic identity is one of a variety of collective identities, and refers to the characteristics of the set and attributes that are one ethnic distinction from other races and among the members of the ethnic group of the feeling of belonging to them. Ethnic identity, like other aspects of collective identity, is influenced by virtual social networks. The present research has been conducted in this regard with the aim of investigating and recognizing the impact of social networks on ethnic identity of Lak Ethnicity. Research method: This research has been conducted through stratigraphic sampling through stratified random sampling. The statistical population of the study consisted of all individuals aged 18 to 40 years old in Noorabad, Delfan, and the sample size was estimated to be 384 by Cochran formula. The validity of the research was determined on the basis of face validity and was used to assess the reliability of Cronbach's alpha. Findings: The findings of this study show that virtual social networks have a significant effect on ethnic identity and both affect the ethnic identity dimension, , Ethnic discriminator and ethnic intercourse. These findings also show that these virtual social networks have a positive and direct impact on ethnic identity, that the greater the use of these virtual social networks, the ethnic identity of these people is more ethnic, and the level of commitment and Ethnic identity also increases. Conclusion: Overall, based on the findings of the research, it can be said that members of the network, with their membership in these networks, and emphasize the production of content in these virtual social networks and the consumption of local cultural products, show their cultural resistance.