Digital Collective Efficacy: A Case Study of a Location Based Social Media Application

• In Event: Ecological Theories of Crime

Abstract

This project explores the benefits of using a location based social media application “Nextdoor” to enhance social solidarity in an east Virginia urban community. Specifically, the study focuses on using theoretical concepts of collective efficacy to explore the dynamic process of developing an online community and examining how the social interaction patterns can be used to increase levels of social cohesion among neighbors. The study is guided by two research questions: what platform specific factors are associated with an increase or decrease in social interaction; and how do users of Nextdoor discuss and address community problems? In a two phase analytical approach, the study first illustrates descriptive statistics controlling for user post type and assessing community thanks and replies; second, the study examines narratives posted by community members and relates theoretical concepts of building trust, social cohesion, and recommendations for maintaining/enhancing informal social control.

Authors

• Philip Austin, Old Dominion University

• Roderick Graham, Old Dominion University