Feeding mechanisms and information cocoons: a study on the dissemination characteristics of Chinese online micro-dramas

This study investigates online micro-dramas through the conceptual framework of feeding mechanisms and information cocoons. Integrating uses and gratifications theory with encoding and decoding paradigms, the research analyzes how algorithmic recommendation systems transform digital entertainment consumption. Through qualitative methodologies combining textual analysis and industry data examination, this study reveals a paradigm shift from mass communication models to algorithmic-driven personalized content delivery systems. The findings demonstrate that big data-enabled traffic-boosting strategies achieve precise audience targeting while enhancing commercial conversion rates, yet simultaneously produce information narrowing phenomena that generate homogeneous content environments. This research contributes to media studies by elucidating how feeding mechanisms improve market efficiency while creating cultural challenges through algorithmic filtering. The study concludes that while online micro-dramas represent significant innovation in content dissemination, their sustainable development requires balanced regulation to ensure cultural diversity within the digital media ecosystem.