Cohort: POLS 38°
Topic of the thesis: The role of social media and influencers in information consumption behaviours, opinion formation dynamics and new forms of political participation: an analysis of young Italian citizens

Abstract: Social networks hold a fundamental role in the information of younger generations and in their opinion-formation dynamics. Digital influencers operating on these channels are increasingly taking public stands on politically relevant issues in the wake of practices such as brand activism. This research project, then, aims to explore what impact these actors (and the platforms themselves) exert in shaping the political opinions of young citizens and in awakening their interest in social and political issues. The research will examine also the concept of political participation, highlighting the growing importance of online actions performed by young people that are conceivable as new forms of political acts. The main objectives of this project consist in analysing the digital traces and actions (e.g., "(news) sharing", "reacting", etc.) and the role taken by social networks and digital influencers in the dynamics of opinion-formation in young people, up to the effects on their political orientations. Methodologically, starting from the analysis of already existing survey data (e.g. Itanes and PostGen), I intend to analyse the influencer contents on social media and to carry on in-depth interviews with young voters.

Research interests: Political communication, public opinion, youth political participation, social media

Graduated from: Università degli Studi di Milano (BA), Università degli studi di Pavia (MA)

Degrees obtained: BA in Humanities and Communication, MA in Digital Communication

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