Digital Bonds -- Exploring the Vital Role of Online Communities in Modern Society: A Norwegian case

Abstract

Online interaction has become a normal aspect of our lives in the last few decades. Individuals spends more time online now than ever before. There are many studies that explore online interactions through various domains and platforms. With a domain as big as the internet, there are almost unlimited ways to research this topic. Understanding online interactions and how it impacts individuals is important for comprehending the social framework within our society. This thesis investigates why individuals take part in online communities, why they stay in the community and how they feel being a member of this community. Giving answers to these questions through in-depth interviews with five members who participate in an online community and are active members. The participants shared their experiences, feelings, and stories about their online community. By examining literature about online interactions and the findings, three main categories were created to explain why the participants are members of this community. The three categories are social support and inclusion through feeling of belonging, knowledge sharing and skill development through accomplishments, and emotional expression and self-exploration through experiences. With these three categories, this thesis shares valuable insight into online interactions and individuals well being in the digital age.

Online interaction has become a normal aspect of our lives in the last few decades. Individuals spends more time online now than ever before. There are many studies that explore online interactions through various domains and platforms. With a domain as big as the internet, there are almost unlimited ways to research this topic. Understanding online interactions and how it impacts individuals is important for comprehending the social framework within our society. This thesis investigates why individuals take part in online communities, why they stay in the community and how they feel being a member of this community. Giving answers to these questions through in-depth interviews with five members who participate in an online community and are active members. The participants shared their experiences, feelings, and stories about their online community. By examining literature about online interactions and the findings, three main categories were created to explain why the participants are members of this community. The three categories are social support and inclusion through feeling of belonging, knowledge sharing and skill development through accomplishments, and emotional expression and self-exploration through experiences. With these three categories, this thesis shares valuable insight into online interactions and individuals well being in the digital age.