Extension or Backstage? Different teens behind Facebook and Instagram from a dynamic perspective

The present research study investigates the social habits of adolescents when using digital formats. This paper explores users’ motivations and preferences for Facebook and Instagram. 238 students of middle and high school are interviewed about their way of social site networking. Our findings show not only gender and age differences but give some suggestions in two other directions: the preference for online/offline friendship and what concerns the different dynamics in managing feedback both as the seeking of approval and as the risk of FoMO. Girls monitor and peek through Instagram while boys do the same through Facebook. Facebook and Instagram are an intriguing virtual escape for the youngest but become a support for relational life for adolescents. From a dynamic perspective we found different teens behind each Social Network site related to their layout: more relational Facebook, more seductive Instagram, especially where preadolescents are concerned.