“Check this out! ”: Collective functions of instant messaging about media content

Abstract

People regularly use and discuss media content with others, such as partners, family, and friends. Such conversations increasingly occur virtually. However, few studies have examined the content and characteristics of mobile messenger communication about media content. We conducted a qualitative content analysis of 128 messenger chats about media content donated by 49 diverse groups. Based on the theoretical concept of group information processing, our analysis revealed six main collective functions of such conversations: (1) discourse, (2) shared emotions, (3) support, (4) joint activities, (5) group positivity, and (6) group identity. We show how these functions are associated with the affordances of messenger communication, group characteristics, and types of media content. Ruptures in the group process occurred only occasionally and were usually followed up by repair attempts. Our research demonstrates that messenger communication about media content not only serves as a substitute for face-to-face conversations but rather complements and enriches them.