Individual Differences Research

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Individual Differences Research > Volume 9, Issue 4 (2011) > 210-218

An Investigation of the Dimensions of SMS Communication Use by College Students

John Raacke, Jennifer Bonds-Raacke

Abstract

Short message servicing (SMS) research has primarily focused on demographics of users, social context of usage, and linguistic differences in SMS communication compared with other communication forms. The purpose of the current study was to add to the body of knowledge by identifying dimensions of SMS use. Specifically, three dimension of SMS use were found -- Communication Sharing Dimension, Communication Avoidance Dimension, and Covert Communication Dimension among participants (N=100). In addition, information on the sex of users and the physical and social contexts of SMS communication were obtained. Future research should examine actual usage in specific situations that could be potentially dangerous, such as while operating a vehicle.