Date of Award

10-2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Communication

First Advisor

Dr. Paige Toller

Abstract

This qualitative study aimed to explore the lived experiences of older adult siblings who participate and engage with their siblings and other family members on Facebook. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 14 baby boomers who have adult siblings they are connected to on Facebook. Thematic analysis was used to identify common themes in the data. Six main themes emerged: (1) Facebook is just one choice in a world of varied communication choices, (2) new family roles come with new “rules” for their behavior, (3) conflicts still exist inside and outside the family, 4) with appreciation for seeing what’s important in their lives, (5) with extreme caution for sharing personal information, and 6) with a blasé attitude about technology. The results highlight the meaning that baby boomers assign to management of their own privacy and their relationships with family members, especially their siblings. The findings also underscore that although Facebook has played a role in their lives, it is less important and has less of an impact on their family relationships than it used to have.

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