O consumo de conteúdo nas redes sociais e seus impactos na subjetividade de crianças

Abstract

The advent of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) has had an impact on childhood relationships and the psychosocial development of children. Access to social networks and the consumption of content on streaming platforms, posted by YouTubers/influencers, have been offered as entertainment opportunities for children during their second childhood. It is important to investigate the role of ICTs in disseminating models, values and standards of conduct to children. The aim of this study was to understand how content published on social networks and streaming platforms by child influencers contributes to the formation of subjectivity in childhood. A qualitative, exploratory, cross-sectional study was carried out with the participation of four children aged between 8 and 12 who consume digital content produced by other children: the so-called YouTubers/Youth Influencers. In addition, one of their guardians (father, mother or grandparents) was also interviewed (three adults). The research protocol was approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee (CEP) at UFSCar (CAAE No. 69404523.6.0000.5504). The data collected was analyzed using the Inductive Thematic Analysis technique and divided into the following categories: (a) Characterization of the participating children, (b) Characterization of the use of networks, (c) Main contents, (d) Comparison and reproduction of behaviors.