Six category system:

  1. Cognition: Using the media to learn or know something
  2. Diversion: Using the media to take our attention elsewhere. Three major forms of diversion: stimulation, relaxation, emotional
  3. Social Utility: Social Utility describes the human need to strengthen contact with family members, friends, our entire social group and making relationship
  4. Affiliation: Affiliation refers to a person’s desire to feel a sense of belonging or involvement within a social group
  5. Expression: Self-expression refers to individuals’ need to express their inner thoughts, feelings, and opinions.
  6. Withdrawal: Withdrawal describes using the media to create a barrier between themselves and other people