Pitt Public Health Researchers Integrate Youth Perspectives in Social Media Content Analysis
Researchers at Pitt Public Health are incorporating youth perspectives into their social media research, particularly concerning content targeting young people. A study published in JMIR Infodemiology involved high school students, undergraduate students, and faculty researchers to analyze how different age groups interpret youth-oriented social media content. This initiative, part of a larger five-year grant from the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, focuses on health information and messaging about nicotine and tobacco products on youth-oriented platforms. The team utilizes a 'Vertically Integrated Project' (VIP) model, where experienced researchers provide guidance while younger team members contribute their unique insights and knowledge. For instance, Natalia Connor, a student involved in the project, highlighted how her lived experiences helped researchers understand trending phrases and cultural nuances. The study collected 300 publicly available YouTube Shorts containing ...
