Social Media and their Influence on Crisis Dynamics

Abstract

In times of crisis, people have an increased demand for information and tend to turn to social media for updates. Online conversations, both public discussions and private messaging, play a crucial role in disseminating information and forming people’s opinions about current issues. However, when it comes to controversial topics related to crises, such as migration, or war, these conversations fuel emotional responses, potentially leading to polarisation. Furthermore, these discussions can create a false impression that they represent a majority, which may lead to the suppression of voices in the public space. Against this general background, this panel brings together contributions that shed light on the dynamics of crises and the role and influence of social media.

Title	Details
The Protest-Repression Nexus in the Digital Age: A Scoping Review on Social Media’s Role in Protest-Repression Dynamics	View Paper Details
How Frames Diffuse to Create Media Storms: Relations Between Legacy, Social and Web Media in the Hybrid Media System	View Paper Details
Harassment and hate speech against politicians and parties on social media during the 2023 Spanish general elections	View Paper Details
Characteristic Subject Matter and Logical Framing: Driving Deep and Lasting Online Communication with Notable Public Impact and Structural Polarization	View Paper Details