Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Date

2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Journalism

Committee Chair

Matthew Haught

Committee Member

Robert D Byrd

Committee Member

Kim S Marks-Malone

Abstract

This study conducted a content and comparative analysis of 17 states’ official Twitter accounts to analyze textual and visual content posted. The types of content, communication models, and visuals were analyzed to determine how states use Twitter as a form of digital diplomacy. A sample of 730 tweets (n = 374, n = 356) was taken from official state accounts. The present study found that the type of content posted varied by freedom level, with international issues and interstate cooperation themes being the most common among states. Additionally, the method of communication varied based on freedom level, with more free states engaging more with audiences instead of simply directing information at them. The final phase of the study looked at visuals and found states tended to use photography more when discussing issues of security.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to ProQuest

Notes

Open Access

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