Posts, interactions, truths and lies of Spanish adolescents on Instagram

Abstract

This study investigates the habits of adolescents concerning the consumption, production and creation on Instagram. We analyzed the types of interrelationships and interactions in this space, and, in turn, the personal identities negatively impacted by dangers, truths and lies. The research used a mixed methodology, by conducting a survey with 171 Spanish adolescents, and developing 17 interview groups with another 67. It was observed that adolescents consume multimedia content, however, they do not create more than the interactions in which they take part on Instagram. Their preferred interactions are with friends, influencers or YouTubers and family, with whom they communicate with stories, likes, direct messages and other comments. The existence of dangers was observed, such as harassment, exclusion and marginalization that lead to the subsequent blocking of certain profiles for their safety.