Directing the Dialogue: The Relationship Between YouTube Videos and the Comments They Spur

Abstract

This study performs a content analysis of 207 YouTube videos and 45,759 comments about the Proposition 8 campaign in California. Specifically, we examine how a video's tone and focus are related to comment features. We find consistent support for the flow of information from topics mentioned in the video to topics addressed in commentary, as well as uptake of an uncivil tone from the video to the comments. Implications are discussed for promoting higher quality online information exchanges and the democratic merits of social media. © 2013 Copyright Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.