Close friends are more likely to give each other “likes” than people who are just casual acquaintances – without expecting anything in return. This is what researcher Kseniya Stsiampkouskaya from the University of Bath discovered by analyzing the emotional reactions of 201 test subjects from six different countries. Conclusion: If nothing in return is provided, future posts from acquaintances are often ignored.

“Of course, a like is also seen as something in return. However, confirmation is only one of the reasons why we like,” confirms psychologist Dominik Rosenauer to “Pressetext”. Details were published in the “Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication”.

Desire for attention

Friends engage in so-called “social grooming” by distributing likes. Positive feedback via social media maintains the relationship and does not just reflect one's own behavior, as is common with acquaintances.

“As long as the desire for attention remains within a healthy framework, a ‘thumbs up’ or a like can even be helpful,” explains Rosenauer.

According to Stsiampkouskaya, the results of the study can be used to optimize user experiences, increase self-confidence and improve mindful use of social media.

“Of course, you can also estimate how well something is received or not by the amount of feedback on our contributions. Negative feedback does not exist on most social media platforms. Since they promote cyberbullying, that’s a good thing,” emphasizes Rosenauer in conclusion in an interview with “Pressetext”.

Source:

Press release

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