Characteristics of the virtual identity of Egyptian youth: Study of a sample of social networks users

Abstract:                                                      
The aim of this paper is to  identify the characteristics of the virtual identity for users of social networks. The study sample consisted of (523) individual at  youth age. The sample was randomly selected from different social and economic levels in Alexandria. The researcher has used the questionnaire as a tool to collect data, and it contained (25) question divided into four dimensions, each of which represents an area of the characteristics and determinants of virtual identity. The findings of the field study have revealed that the  characteristics of virtual identity are a reflection of the social existence and the interests of users on the one hand, and their aspirations and hopes on the other hand.  Also, it was also shown that there are features and characteristics which are more subject to change than others from the view of the users (profile image , address, economical and professional status, name, gender, age, and social status) ,and this dates back to the desire to hide and not to reveal their true identity.Additionally, there is a satifaction among the users of social networks about their virtual identity.It was revealed that there is an increase in the amount of time spent by young people browsing social networks, which negatively affects the performance of their roles and social relationships in the real society.