Digital Ties
Investigating the Influence of Social Media Use on Father–Child Rapport
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 21638163 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Michael Langlais (0000-0001-8892-2808, Baylor University), Mickey Langlais (Baylor University, corresponding author), Genevieve Morcom (University of Glasgow), Daniela Villanueva (Baylor University) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Volume | 34 |
| Issue | 2 |
| Pages | 442-451 |
| Publication date | 2026-04-01 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | The Family Journal (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 1066-4807 • E-ISSN: 1552-3950 |
| Publisher | SAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US) |
| DOI | 10.1177/10664807261420128 |
| OpenAlex | W7128168135 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 22 |
This study aims to understand how fathers and their emerging adult children (ages 18–25) social media use predicts rapport in their relationship. Data for this study were collected from 38 father–emerging adult child dyads ( N = 76). College students were recruited through convenience and snowball sampling to complete online surveys regarding their social media behaviors and their report of rapport with their fathers. Data was analyzed using actor–partner interdependence models (APIMs). Results revealed that when emerging adult children posted photos on social media, they reported higher rapport with their fathers; however, their fathers reported lower rapport for the same behavior. Also, children engaging in active social media behaviors were associated with higher perceived rapport with fathers, although fathers did not perceive these same increases in rapport. Results of this study can be used by family clinicians and therapists to support father–emerging adult child relationships as social media use remains high in families
Computer-mediated communication · Digital media · Media use · Snowball sampling · Social media · Social support · Attachment and Relationship Dynamics · Child Development and Digital Technology · Impact of Technology on Adolescents
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Emerging adulthood
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| Highly cited | No |
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