Abstract

CASAS, José Antonio; JIMENEZ, David  and  SANCHEZ, Sergio. Exploratory Study on the Influence of Youtubers on Adolescents. REDIE [online]. 2022, vol.24, e06.  Epub June 27, 2022. ISSN 1607-4041.  https://doi.org/10.24320/redie.2022.24.e06.4088.

This paper explores the relationship between adolescents and YouTubers, with the aim of understanding the meaning and extent of the impact of following a given YouTuber. The limited scientific research on this subject has noted the importance of aspects such as the type of content in video broadcasts, the state of mind that these figures impress upon adolescents, and the level of proximity and idealization displayed by younger followers. To conduct this study, we developed and validated an ad hoc questionnaire. The results support the dimensions proposed and perpetuate certain gender roles. We conclude it is necessary to develop critical media education, raising awareness among families and teachers of the importance of this issue and the need to foster a critical approach in young people to “following” these new idols.

Keywords : social media; youtuber; social influence; teenagers.