Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
6837545 Computers in Human Behavior 2016 8 Pages PDF
Abstract
This study expands on the 'internet-attribute-perception' model that explains how online attributes (i.e. reduced cues and controllability) and the disinhibition effect mediate the relationship between personal characteristics and online self-disclosure. The current study tested this model for two distinct modes of Facebook communication: private and public, focussing on the personal characteristic of social anxiety. Using path analysis on a sample of 306 participants (Mean age = 20.52 years, SD = 1.45, 65.69% female), the model was partially replicated showing support in private but not public modes of Facebook communication. Although there was a positive relationship between social anxiety and the perceived value of the online attributes in public Facebook communication, this did not lead to the disinhibition effect. The study discusses potential differences between these two ways of communication but highlights that more private ways of online communication may be vital for socially anxious individuals in terms of relational development.
Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering Computer Science Computer Science Applications
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