Anthropological Researches and Studies (Jun 2024)
EXPOSURE AND SUBJECTIVE EXPERIENCE OF THE CONSUMPTION OF AUDIOVISUAL CONTENT IN YOUNG MEXICAN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
Abstract
Objectives. This study aims to characterize the exposure of Mexican young university students to internet audiovisual content and analyze their subjective experiences in consuming such content. Material and Methods. A multiple case study design was employed utilizing content analysis as an analytical strategy. Data were collected through a 15-item semi-structured interview, validated by experts calculating the content validity coefficient (CVC) before initiating data collection. Results. Sixteen participants were evaluated. Data analysis considered two general categories: A) Exposure to audiovisual content (types of media, initial devices used for viewing playful content, variations in consumption times, historical patterns of audiovisual content consumption); and B) Subjective experience of audiovisual content consumption (emotions associated with consumption, positive and negative perceptions). Category A yielded two main results: 1) Mobile devices facilitated access to audiovisual content, though television and video games remained the primary means of entry; and 2) participants exhibited a shift in interests towards more specialized content during their university years. Concerning category B, participants reported seeking audiovisual content to experience specific emotions such as fear and joy. Additionally, they highlighted benefits like social connection, entertainment, and learning. However, some reported negative effects, including experiencing negative emotions and a perceived lack of control over the time spent consuming audiovisual content. Conclusions. This research contributes to the understanding of audiovisual content consumption habits in young university students. It seeks to identify how the consumption of such content positively and negatively impacts their emotions, entertainment experiences, learning, and socialization processes. Furthermore, the study aims to shed light on potential risks associated with problematic usage patterns.
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