Posts and Pathways: Social media and Migration (Published)
This paper provides a comprehensive literature review on the relationship between social media and migration. It discusses the role of social media in shaping migration behaviors, experiences, and outcomes, as well as its influence on pre-migration planning, integration processes, and transnational connections. The review categorizes research into three main themes: social media in pre-migration information, influence on migrants’ incorporation into host societies, and the preservation of transnational ties among immigrant communities. Theoretical frameworks are applied to understand these dynamics, particularly affecting social capital (Bourdieu, 1986), transnationalism (Glick Schiller et al., 1992), and agency (Castells, 2009). By synthesizing interdisciplinary findings, this paper aims to provide a conceptual foundation focusing on the importance of social media in the migration process. The conclusion suggests avenues for further exploration, particularly concerning the implications of digital divides on migrant experiences and highlights the implications of social media interactions for both migrants and host societies, ultimately suggesting directions for future research.
Keywords: Migration, Process, Relationship, Social media