Performing Self through Social Media: How African American Males (Re) Construct Their Identities, Self-Presentations, and Relationships Offline and Online DISSERTATION Presented in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Doctor of Philosophy in the Graduate School of The Ohio State University By Ronald L. Parker, B.S., M.A. Graduate Program in Educational Policy and Leadership The Ohio State University 2015 Dissertation Committee: Richard J. Voithofer, Ph.D., Advisor & Co-Chair James L. Moore, III, Ph.D., Co-Chair Osei Appiah, Ph.D. Copyrighted by Ronald L. Parker 2015 Abstract This qualitative study investigated how adult African American undergraduate males at a predominantly white institution (PWI) (re)constructed their identity, self- presentation, and relationships on Facebook (www.facebook.com), a popular social network site (SNS). The results of the study provided insight into how undergraduate African American males integrated their internal and external self and social media to construct and represent “who they are” on-campus and on this particular social network site. In addition, the results revealed how the participants created, managed, and facilitated their relationships in both environments, while providing useful insights into how they endured the historically negative images that have tried to define this population. Grounded theory methods including constant comparison analysis, were used to interpret the interview and supportive data from twenty-one (21) undergraduate African American male participants (e.g., online demographic questionnaire, two individual semi- structured interview sessions, and screen captured Facebook profile pages). To this end, the study revealed eight major themes: a) online identity construction - participants are influenced by their early identity in constructing their online identities, b) race, gender, and online caution - participants described how they monitored themselves as they interacted in various online and offline spaces, c) professional brand/image control - participants shared how they constructed their professional brand and protected their ii personal image, d) blended consciousness including academic inferiority and representation in media - participants highlighted how they dealt with their conscious duality in academic settings and how these experiences impacted their online interactions with their White counterparts, e) making his voice heard including political voice and religious voice - participants shared how Facebook created a space for them to make their voices heard when expressing their political and religious thoughts and views, f) academic use of Facebook - participants described how they directly and indirectly used Facebook for academic purpose, g) the performance - participants conveyed how they developed their self-presentation and managed their interaction with their audience, and h) anchored relationships/Offline preferred - participants expressed how they preferred to have important conversations with established relationships in both offline and online environments especially with close family members and friends. The findings also pinpointed that these participants actively integrated social media technology into their daily educational and social experiences. More importantly, the study showed a high level of awareness in both offline and online settings of creating and maintaining positive identities and self-presentations among the participants. iii Dedication To the Most High God and Creator of the universe To my ancestors To my mother, Nikolia G. and my father, Wallace To my daughter, Ronisha Nicole and grandson, JuRon Emanuel iv Acknowledgments “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 This doctoral journey has been truly a test of my faith and perseverance while working in a very demanding environment. I juxtapose this journey with my fraternal experience. That being said, I have some many to thank. First and foremost, I joyfully give all adoration, honor, and praise to the most high God of this universe. In spite of my imperfections, you decided to love me in such a way that words can’t describe accurately. I know you have plans for me that I can’t even imagine but I am ready to serve your purpose for my life To my dissertation committee, I would like to thank my dissertation committee members collectively and individually for the support, dedication, patience, professional expertise and constructive feedback provide throughout this journey. Dr. Appiah, I would like to thank you for being a part of my Master degree project. It was your research projects that spark the idea of becoming a social scientist. I watched you conduct your research in such a professional and ethical manner that goes beyond reproach. As I conducted myself throughout this project, you served as a research role model to emulate. More importantly, I appreciate your support and willingness to reach out during this journey with constructive feedback and scholarly excellence. Dr. Moore, I would like to v thank you for being the Paul-like role model and mentor during my doctoral journey. Upon our first meeting, it became transparent that God place you in my life to provide that tough love and to develop a “scratchline” mentality. Your mentorship constantly challenged me to reach deeper and strive for a higher level of excellence. During my professional frustrations, you served as a godly vessel forcing me to rely on His word and know that He has thoughts and plans for me, not for harm or evil, but for a future and hope. Finally, I would like to thank you for believing and trusting me to produce videos for the advancement and achievement of African American males throughout the educational pipeline. Dr. Voithofer, I would to thank you for traveling along this journey with me and for supporting me academically, professionally, and personally. It was your push to listen to God and embark on this journey. In addition, I greatly appreciate the iteration process that pushed me toward excellence by making sure that my “I’s” were dotted and my “T’s” were crossed to ensure that this dissertation came into fruition. More notably, I want thank you for the wonderful discovery moments of getting to know and learn each other’s patterns and style. I can honestly say that I know you want me to become an outstanding researcher. Thank you for sharing other parts of your world beyond this long journey. To my daughter, Ronisha Nicole, thank you for being my number one cheerleader. Your phone calls, text messages, sense of humor, and true friendship help take away the loneliness during this process. Your pursuit for academic excellence makes me super proud to be a father and a dad. More importantly, I love your spiritual walk in vi pursuing God and being a strong mother to my amazing grandson, JuRon. Yes, you have your dad back. To my five accountability brothers, James, John, Terrance, Scott, and Percy, it goes without saying, “faithful are the wounds of a friend.” I can’t imagine my life without each of you. I thank you for exemplifying what it means to be “real friends” and a brother’s keeper. James, our friendship extends back to high school and I believe God placed you in my life for a lifetime. You have truly been my “brother from another mother”. John, you know “college days swiftly pass” but our friendship remained strong beyond our collegiate experience. Thank you for always being transparent and straightforward during some candid conversations. Terrance, I want to thank you for being a true friend and brother during a very difficult time in my life. I will never forget when you opened up your home during my career transition. The road trips to fraternal conventions and St. Louis are permanent memories of laughter and unforgettable experiences. During this journey, I want to thank you for serving as a sounding board. Scott, I want to thank you for inviting me into your extended family. The Sunday family meals tradition with your parents and siblings are exemplary. Also, you witnessed the beginning of this journey from a perspective of no other. You have seen the trials and tribulations up close and personal. I want to thank you for all your words of support, encouragement, and understanding. Percy, I want to thank you for your amazing spirit and kindness beyond measure. Your pledging metaphors serve as a reminder that iron sharpens iron. I want to thank you for being on this emotional rollercoaster with me. Your excitement and cheerleading helped me push through the finish line. vii To my church family members, Pastor Dr. Wise, III, Media Ministry team (Brother David, Brother Carlos, Brother Michael, Sister Judy, and Brother Darryl), and a special thanks to Brother Ricardo M., Brother Victor C., Brother Boston, Brother Shaun B., and Brother Sunny for your continue love, support, and brotherly bond in Christ. Special thanks to my Alpha Brothers in Christ - Carlos B., Murv E., George L., and Curtis S. Special thanks The Proverbian women of Faith Ministries Church include Sister Lori L., Sister Anita S., Sister Cheryl N., Sister Cynthia G., Sister Kim C., Sister Gayle L., and Deaconess Bernice C. I would like to give a thanks to the following queens for their support and encouragement through this journey: Dr. Desiree Vega, Dr. Gabrielle St. Leger, Dr. Christa Porter, Dr. D’Andra Mull, Dr. Javuna Adams-Gaston, Dr. Paticia Lather, Dr. Valerie Lee, Rabekah D. Stewart, M.A., and the late Dr. Suzanne Damarin. I would be remiss to not acknowledge Deb Zabloudil, Director of the Office of Student Services in the College of Education and Human Ecology, for your support and encouragement from the very beginning. Your patience and kind spirit are unwavering. You are a pillar and true champion for the success of all students but your spirit of service comes from a genuine place of love. Thank you for always smiling and sharing words of encouragement.