Browsing by Author "Varonen, Maria"

Goals. The aim of the thesis is to find out how knitting as a hobby effects on social and psychological well-being, as well as causes, why people join Facebook knitting communities. Thesis examines craftsmanship as a hobby, community in crafts, as well as social media online communities. Previous studies have shown that with engaging in crafts has positive effects on well-being. Handicrafts making has been found to have a positive impact on mood, reducing stress as well as improving concentration. Social media has been found to offer its users a place for networking, showcase their crafts as well as the opportunity to share and gain information. Methods. The study was carried out using both qualitative and quantitative means of analysis. However, the study places an emphasis on qualitative analysis. The research target set is made up by knitting enthusiasts, who are members of the Facebook knitting themed group. The data was collected using an online survey and an online survey link with the cover text was divided into three Facebook knitting groups. The number of respondents to the survey was 889 copies. The data was analyzed using the means of content analysis as well as quantitative data using statistical methods of analysis. Results and conclusions. Based on the results of the studies can be noted that knitting has positive effects for the social and psychological well-being of the individual. The results of this thesis show, that knitting brings like-minded people together, helps to relax, as well as acting as a topic of discussion in difficult social situations. Reasons for being in social media knitting communities included ideas, tips and obtaining help and information.