Examining the use of social media tool “Flickr” for impact on loneliness for people with intellectual disability

Abstract

This research is part of a multi-phased research project funded by the Norwegian Research Council. This phase explored if people with intellectual disability who use the social media tool “Flickr” are less lonely than those who do not. In this paper we seek to identify the characteristics of functions or activities in which participants using Flickr engaged and if these characteristics contributed to reducing loneliness. We examined also what supports participants needed to use Flickr. Twelve participants were instructed in how to use Flickr and guided in its use for 8 weeks. Interviews were conducted to assess participants’ experiences. Participants stated that social functions such as creating a group for swapping photos were key for enjoyment and engagement in the activity. This pilot study is the first to explore the impact of Flickr on loneliness and will serve as starting point for comparison with other 3D social media tools.