Uses and Gratifications of Facebook for Self-Disclosure Among Men in South-East Nigeria

A prevalence of studies on online self-disclosure exists in foreign countries. In Africa, studies on online self- disclosure are fast gaining popularity; however, there is still a paucity of academic enquiries on online self-disclosure among men within the Nigerian context, particularly in Southeast Nigeria. This study, domesticated in Nigeria, interrogated the why, gains and uses of Facebook for self-disclosure among men in Southeast Nigeria. Anchored on the Uses and Gratifications theory, the study exclusively espoused quantitative research approach, using Survey and Content Analysis. Questionnaire and Coding Sheet served as the instruments for data collection. A simple random sampling was employed to select 500 male respondents, aged, 18-35, from the population of men in Southeast (4,907,731), while manifest Facebook self-disclosure of these men was meticulously studied, and content analyzed. In terms of Facebook use for self-disclosure, results revealed that these men frequently disclose educational contents, career/workplace identity; recreational activities/leisure; social events and others on Facebook. While addressing the 'why' of Facebook self-disclosure, it was established in this study that the men in southeast are mainly motivated to engage in the disclosure, with the aim of storing meaningful personal information. Other reasons include keeping up with social trends; sharing information and providing solutions to issues; engaging in self- presentation/identity construction; managing relationships; and showing off/displaying self-worth. However, storage of meaningful information remains predominant as their major reason for self-disclosure. The gains they derive from Facebook self- disclosure comprise online networking with people/social connections; building of self-esteem /status enhancement; self- expression/ narcissism; social identity/ popularity within social networks; initiating and maintaining relationships/dating; and sharing and accessing new information about people and events. Among these gains, self-expression cum narcissism was dominant. It is concluded that Facebook use is a prominent online activity among men in Southeast Nigeria. The study also upholds that Facebook is a significant medium of social communication where users gain or fulfill certain gratifications through self-disclosure.