Abstract
Objectives
We analyzed Twitter tweets and Twitter-provided user data to give geographical, temporal
and content insight into the use of social media in the Planned Parenthood video controversy.
Methodology
We randomly sampled the full Twitter repository (also known as the Firehose) (n=30,000) for tweets containing the phrase “planned parenthood” as well as group-defining
hashtags “#defundpp” and “#standwithpp.” We used demographic content provided by the
user and word analysis to generate charts, maps and timeline visualizations. Chi-square
and t tests were used to compare differences in content, statistical references and dissemination
strategies.
Results
From July 14, 2015, to January 30, 2016, 1,364,131 and 795,791 tweets contained “#defundpp”
and “#standwithpp,” respectively. Geographically, #defundpp and #standwithpp were
disproportionally distributed to the US South and West, respectively. Word analysis
found that early tweets predominantly used “sensational” words and that the proportion
of “political” and “call to action” words increased over time. Scatterplots revealed
that #standwithpp tweets were clustered and episodic compared to #defundpp. #standwithpp
users were more likely to be female [odds ratio (OR) 2.2, confidence interval (CI)
2.0–2.4] and have fewer followers (median 544 vs. 1578, p<.0001). #standwithpp and
#defundpp did not differ significantly in their usage of data in tweets. #defundpp
users were more likely to link to websites (OR 1.8, CI 1.7–1.9) and to other online
dialogs (mean 3.3 vs. 2.0 p<.0001).
Conclusion
Social media analysis can be used to characterize and understand the content, tempo
and location of abortion-related messages in today's public spheres. Further research
may inform proabortion efforts in terms of how information can be more effectively
conveyed to the public.
Implications
This study has implications for how the medical community interfaces with the public
with regards to abortion. It highlights how social media are actively exploited instruments
for information and message dissemination. Researchers, providers and advocates should
be monitoring social media and addressing the public through these modern channels.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: September 01, 2017
Accepted:
August 23,
2017
Received in revised form:
June 4,
2017
Received:
November 27,
2016
Identification
Copyright
© 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
