AbstractsPsychology

Facebook profile pictures, motivations and personality

by WEI HUNG ALIAS JOSEPH CHANG




Institution: NSYSU
Department: IBMBA
Degree: Master
Year: 2015
Keywords: Profile picture; Motivation; Impression; Personality; Facebook
Record ID: 1388511
Full text PDF: http://etd.lib.nsysu.edu.tw/ETD-db/ETD-search/view_etd?URN=etd-0104115-230603


Abstract

Facebook has been gaining popularity ever since it was first introduced and offers the user the chance for self-presentation. This study examines the motivations behind the choice of a profile picture and the image of the user that it gives out. The research was conducted in the form of an on-site visual study evaluating the profile pictures of Facebookâs users. Relations between profile pictures and userâs personality were examined. Comparison was done between Asians and Non-Asians Participants. Choice of Profile Picture was found to be motivated by a desire to portray a desired image. Profile picture was found to reflect userâs personality. Our study supports the theory of collaborative learning through learning from peers as results shows that otherâs choice of profile pictures affects viewerâs own future choice of profile picture. If they like the impression made by a particular type of profile picture, they are likely to learn from it and upload the same type of profile picture with the aim of sending the same positive impression.