Patterns of Facebook usage among baby boomers, generation X and generation Y in Malaysia

Malaysia has the highest Facebook usage in South East Asia. With this in mind a study was conducted to investigate the pattern of Facebook usage amongst the Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y in Malaysia. The study showed that there are no significant differences in the usage pattern and time spent amongst the three generations. There are, however, two activities which reflect the differences between the Baby Boomers and the younger generations (Gen X and Y): namely, reconnecting with people whom they have lost contact with and playing games. This study supported Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovation theory and proved that the ‘innovation’ (Facebook) has the potential for full adoption within the social system given adequate time. Keywords: Facebook; Baby Boomers; Gen X; Gen Y; Innovation Diffusion Theory; Social Networking Sites; Adoption