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The problem with the internet: An affordance-based approach for psychological research on networked technologies
Olivia Brown1, Laura G E Smith2, Brittany I Davidson3
1School of Management, University of Bath, United Kingdom.
Acta Psychologica
|June 30, 2022
Summary
Research on internet use needs more precise definitions. Understanding how technology features and user psychology interact is key for predicting online and offline behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Psychological Science
- Communication Studies
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- The internet is broadly associated with both benefits and harms.
- High-level concepts like "the internet" oversimplify its influence on individuals and society.
- Existing research on social influence in computer-mediated communication (CMC) lacks precision regarding technology's impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To advocate for increased precision in studying social influence in computer-mediated communication (CMC).
- To highlight the need for understanding how specific networked technology features interact with psychological processes.
- To propose a more systematic approach for future research in this domain.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing research on the affordances of networked technologies.
- Analysis of how environmental affordances and user/community psychology shape online behavior.
- Development of a template for systematic research design.
Main Results:
- The relationship between "the internet" and "online behavior" is contingent on technology affordances and user/community psychology.
- Current conceptualizations of "internet use" and "online behavior" lack the necessary nuance and precision.
- A framework is proposed to systematically examine interactions between user, technology, and community variables.
Conclusions:
- Psychological science must refine its conceptualizations, operationalizations, and measurements of "internet use" and "online behavior".
- Adopting a systematic approach will enable more accurate predictions of online and offline outcomes.
- Future research should focus on the interplay of individual, technological, and community factors in networked communication.
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