Self-Presentation on Social Networks: Features of Virtual Image Formation Depending on Age

摘要

The paper analyzes the relationship between the formation of a virtual image and the level of development of Internet culture of social networks through the example of studying profiles on VKontakte social network. Internet culture of social networks is referred to as a system of values, norms, traditions and technologies that regulate the interaction of users of virtual social network with each other, with moderators and with oneself. Self-presentation is considered as a process of constructing a simulacrum that does not have an original existing in reality. Based on J. Baudrillard's concept of simulacra, a model for development of self-presentation as a result of assimilation of Internet culture of social networks, which reflects different levels of its development, is proposed. The study showed that the level of assimilation of Internet culture of social networks depends on the age of the user. The higher the level of assimilation of Internet culture of social networks, the higher the possibilities of self-presentation made to achieve personal and professionally significant goals.