Communicating Identity through eBook Reading Habit: A Study Among Digital Natives

Abstract

Reading is currently in the most significant decline among young adult readers in human history. The general problem is that reading is viewed through a narrow lens that does not consider how young adult readers interact with eBooks and digital text. The problem is that for reading advocates to bolster readership among young adult readers, research must consider the relationship between eBook reading and reader identity in this age group. The study aims to explore how digital natives reading identity and investigate the phenomenon of their eBook reading behavior. By examining the eBook reading habits and behaviors of the digital natives, the study provided insights on developing more effective communication strategies for promoting eBooks and digital reading.

The quantitative research design selected for this study was a survey research approach. Several key findings have emerged in this comprehensive study of eBook reading behavior among digital natives. The acquisition of eBooks was examined and showed that eBook readers primarily purchased their eBooks while borrowing and renting was not a familiar process for the participants. There was a positive correlation between Readers' identity and eBook Reading Behavior. Adolescent Development, a readers’ identity factor, predicts eBook reading behavior significantly. Increased reading hours and a positive eBook reading experience positively influenced eBook purchases.

Research recommendations include longitudinal studies to track changes in eBook reading behavior, cross-cultural research to explore differences among digital natives, experimental designs to test eBook design elements, in-depth interviews for deeper insights, and interventions to enhance reader identities.