Participatory Outcomes of Collective Action Groups on Facebook: The Roles of Network Relationships and Group Contexts

Authors

  • Chih-Hui Lai National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University

Keywords:

social media, Facebook, voluntary group, civic engagement, communication infrastructure theory

Abstract

This study examines the mechanisms of how participation in Facebook collective action groups predicts civic participation and the generation of group impacts. The results from a nationally representative sample in Taiwan showed that group participation was positively associated with civic participation, but only indirectly through perceived tie strength within the group. This indirect relationship was also moderated by the extent to which members coparticipated in other groups on Facebook. Moreover, the results from a second data set (a young adult sample in Taiwan) showed that group participation had both direct and indirect effects on perceived group impacts (internal and external) through perceived network size within the group. The indirect and negative relationship between group participation and perceived external impact was mitigated by the extent to which the groups endeavored to collaborate with other entities.

Author Biography

Chih-Hui Lai, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University

Chih-Hui Lai (PhD, Rutgers University, 2012) is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication and Technology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan. Her research focuses on how individuals, groups and organizations use information and communication technologies (ICTs) to communicate and how relationships evolve or emerge through the process.

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Published

2023-07-14

Issue

Vol. 17 (2023)

Section

Articles

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