The importance of social networks in Catalonia
More and more people are using social media as a primary tool to stay informed about current events in Catalonia. According to a survey conducted by the Centre for Opinion Studies (CEO), 65% of Catalans admit to using social media for this purpose. These platforms are only surpassed by live television (71%) and digital media (66%).
As for the social network most used to check current events, Instagram tops the list with 47% of mentions, followed by WhatsApp with 38%. YouTube and Facebook are used by around 30% of people surveyed, while TikTok and Twitter are at 19% and 17%, respectively. Telegram and Twitch do not exceed 10% usage, and only 21% say they do not use any social network to get information.
In general, television, digital media and social networks are the most used media to obtain information, with percentages ranging between 71% and 65%. Below are radio and television, radio or newspaper websites, with percentages around 50%. Time-shifted television, the press and YouTube/Twitch, as well as podcasts, are less popular options in daily information consumption, with percentages between 40% and 20%.
The credibility of the different information channels
The survey also investigated the perception of the credibility of the different information channels. Social networks obtained 10% trust, surpassing the press (9%) and digital media (6%). On the other hand, television was considered the most credible medium, with 22% trust, followed by radio with 16%. 22% of those surveyed believe that there is no media that provides credible information, and 15% do not know.
Audiovisual content preferences
The survey also revealed the audiovisual content preferences of Catalans. Fiction series and movies top the list with 34%, followed by current information (20%). Next, there are entertainment and humor programs (12%), documentaries and cultural programs (12%), sports and sports news (9%), and musical content (6%).
Differences are observed between men and women in terms of content preferences. Men show greater television consumption of sports, while women prefer fiction series and movies in all age groups. In addition, men aged 16 to 24 show a greater interest in sports, while men over 64 are more inclined towards current information.
Conclusions
Social networks have acquired a relevant role in communication and obtaining information in Catalonia. Although television and digital media remain important, social networks have become a fundamental tool to stay up to date with current affairs. However, it is important to take into account the credibility of the information found on these platforms and complement it with other reliable sources.