From WeChat to Instagram: Tracing Social Media Acculturation in the Chinese Diaspora in the United States

• In Event: Social Media Sensemaking Within and Across Cultures

Abstract

This longitudinal qualitative study investigates social media usage and acculturation among the Chinese diaspora in the U.S., factoring in their life stage and time of arrival. Utilizing two interviews with the same participants conducted in 2016 and 2023, we apply the Uses and Gratifications Theory and Acculturation Theory to understand changing perceptions and behaviors over time. Findings reveal shifts from active to passive social media usage with the transition from student to professional life, privacy concerns evolving over time, and increased awareness of information literacy. Variations in social media platform preference based on time of arrival were also noted. These results challenge the conventional understanding of "mainstream" media practices and highlight the urgency of promoting information literacy.

Authors

• Nicola YuenLam Law, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Marcus Cheung, Teachers College, Columbia University