Abstract:

In this study, the level and dimensions of university students' self-expression in SMN (social media networks) during the COVID-19 pandemic were examined. In this context, a field study was carried out by applying face-to-face survey technique with 417 students studying at Selcuk University. Individuals who became lonely during quarantine-restriction days started to use SMA more frequently use and spend time. Accordingly, self-expression behaviors have changed in these networks. As a result of the study, an increase was found in the duration of SMA use of university students. The increase in the amount of time university students spend on SMA is also reflected in their self-expression behaviors. The average level of self-expression of the participants in SMA was determined as 72.18, and it was determined that they exhibited self-expression behaviors above the average. According to the descriptive statistical results made to determine the self-expression behaviors according to gender, the level of self-expression in social media is higher for women than for men. Exploratory Factor Analysis was conducted to determine the participants' self-expression behaviors and sub-dimensions in social media networks, and 5 sub-dimensions representing self-expression behaviors were determined. These are respectively; Quantity, Intention, Honesty, Positivity, and Control.

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