Exploring the User Base of Online Neighborhood Networks: Determinants of Online Neighborhood Network Membership and Uses

Abstract

This paper aims to determine the prevalence of the use of online neighborhood networks (ONNs) and explores which socio-demographic, socioeconomic status (SES), social integration, and media use determinants predict ONN membership and uses. Drawing on a stratified random sample (Ghent, Belgium), we found that over a third of the population are ONN members and that membership was mainly predicted by socio-demographic characteristics. Also, in contrast to prior research, our results show that ONNs are the local online territory of residents of lower SES, to whom these ONNs are a means of connecting with and capitalizing on neighborhood connections.