Identity construction on whatsapp_ a study of selected undergraduate students of the university of education, Winneba

Abstract

This study examined identity construction on WhatsApp through the profiles of some selected undergraduate students in the University of Education, Winneba, Winneba Campus. The research was conducted qualitatively through interviews and observation of participants profiles on WhatsApp. Data collected included images of participants‘ WhatsApp profiles which were analysed textually and thematically. The study was anchored on the Theories of Symbolic Interactionism, Identity Theory and Goffman‘s Presentation of Self. The study found that, religion, self and personal interest, family, business, friendship and relationship, and institutional/socio-academic group affiliations were the main identities constructed on WhatsApp by participants. These identities were mainly constructed through the use of tools such as text, pictures and picture-text images on their profiles. It was also found that the identities constructed on WhatsApp were not free from influences such as participants; friends, family, religion and the ―self‖. From the study, it was revealed that religion and the self as well as comments from family and friends on participants‘ profiles influence the identities they construct on WhatsApp