Understanding and responding to algorithm : How different age groups reflect and respond to problematic aspects of YouTube’s algorithm

Sammanfattning: YouTube is a global video sharing platform, affecting millions of users daily with its algorithm. With the lack of research on users’ perspectives this study explored: How different age groups reflect and respond to problematic aspects of the YouTube algorithm. Two different age groups were interviewed to probe their perspectives and test any following shifts in attitudes or behavior. Using the lens of the Transtheoretical behavior change model (“Stages of Change”), these two groups were taxonomised and revealed differing affective perceptions and dynamics towards intentions to change. The younger generations proved to be more rigid, while the older indicated more flexibility to change. These and other perception dimensions such as: self-assessment, level of trust, responsibility issues and engagement practices were explored and compared between two age groups.