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The Roles of Anonymity and Incivility in Perceptions of User Comments

Research output: Conference PapersRGC 32 - Refereed conference paper (without host publication)peer-review

Abstract

The present study examines how anonymity and incivility influence interpersonal evaluations and message persuasion in the context of online user comments. Results of an online experiment (N = 229) showed that the lack of identity cues of commenters undermined perceptions of credibility of commenters and persuasiveness of public discussion in the comment forum. Additionally, participants who read uncivil comments following a news article were more likely to negatively evaluate commenters and the content of online discussions compared to their counterparts exposed to civil comments. The study not only demonstrates the corrosive effects of online incivility on deliberative outcomes, but also provides evidence to better explain anonymous communication from the perspective of message receivers.
Original languageEnglish
Publication statusPublished - May 2020
Event70th Annual International Communication Association Conference (ICA 2020) - Virtual
Duration: 20 May 202026 May 2020
https://www.icahdq.org/page/ICA2020

Conference

Conference70th Annual International Communication Association Conference (ICA 2020)
Abbreviated title70th Annual ICA Conference
Period20/05/2026/05/20
Internet address

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