Mobile communication and strong network ties: Shrinking or expanding spheres of public discourse?

This study tests theoretical propositions that intensive mobile communication in small networks of like-minded strong ties hinders open dialogue with others.Using multi-wave panel data from a representative sample of adults in the US, the study found that reported levels of open dialogue decreased slightly with mobile-mediated political discussion in small and like-minded strong-tie networks.Interestingly, a more pronounced positive effect was found for mobile-mediated discussion in larger networks of like-minded close ties.In this case, open dialogue was facilitated by mobile-mediated discussion, revealing potential for mobile communication among close personal ties to expand spheres of public discourse and deliberation.Theoretical implications and directions for future research are offered in the discussion.