Twitter and disability activism: leadership and relevant topics in the online conversation

This research analyzes online conversations related to disability activism on Twitter, specifically using the #disability hashtag, both before and after the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The study utilized a large dataset of over 18,000 tweets and mentions, applying network analysis techniques to understand the dynamics of information dissemination and leadership within this digital sphere.

Why it matters

Understanding how digital activism mobilizes and disseminates information is crucial for strategic communication and engagement with diverse communities. This analysis provides insights into online leadership and conversational dynamics, which can inform approaches to advocacy, policy development, and community building.

Key insights

• The study focused on understanding information dissemination and leadership patterns in online disability activism.
• Data collection involved tweets with the #disability hashtag before and after the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
• Over 18,000 tweets and mentions were analyzed using graph theory software (Gephi) and the Force Atlas 2 algorithm.

Source

arXiv — Computers and Society — https://arxiv.org/abs/2608.11923