Scripts, selfies and sexting

: Exploring young women’s engagement with the internet and social media in Northern Ireland

Abstract

This research investigated how girls and young women across Northern Ireland engaged with the internet and social media to express their gender and sexuality in an era of online communication. The study is informed by data collected through eighteen focus group discussions with 196 girls and young women, across twelve post-primary schools and three youth groups in Northern Ireland.

Guided by sexual script theory, this research evidences how, via the use of contemporary technology, girls and young women are both empowered and constrained by post-feminist ideals and cultural norms, particularly the heterosexual script.

Thesis embargoed until 31 July 2027.

Date of Award	Jul 2022
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Queen's University Belfast
Sponsors	Northern Ireland Department for the Economy
Supervisor	Dirk Schubotz (Supervisor) & Siobhan McAlister (Supervisor)