Why future friends matter
Impact of expectancy of relational growth on online gamer loyalty
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 12420589 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Gen‐Yih Liao (0000-0002-6712-1400, Chang Gung University, corresponding author), Tzu‐Ling Huang (0000-0002-3358-6779, Chang Gung University), T C E Cheng (0000-0001-5127-6419, Hong Kong Polytechnic University), Ching‐I Teng (0000-0002-3976-5399, Chang Gung University) |
| Year | 2020 |
| Volume | 30 |
| Issue | 5 |
| Pages | 1479-1501 |
| Publication date | 2020-06-20 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Internet Research (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 1066-2243 • E-ISSN: 2054-5657 |
| Publisher | Emerald Publishing Limited (PUBLISHER • GB) |
| DOI | 10.1108/intr-08-2019-0342 |
| OpenAlex | W3037090973 |
| Language | EN |
| Citations received | 6 |
| References cited | 69 |
Purpose Relational cohesion theory posits that relational cohesion helps build relationships among communication partners, implying that users would expect a growth in relations or making more friends in the future. However, little is known about expectancy of a better future state of relations, i.e. expectancy of relational growth, and its impact on users' continued engagement in online communication. Our study extends relational cohesion theory to explain how expectancy of relational growth impacts online gamer loyalty. Design/methodology/approach We test the framework using structural equation modeling to analyze a large sample of 1,429 responses from online gamers. Findings We find that expectancy of relational growth is positively related to norm compliance and relational cohesion, which are further related to network convergence and interdependence, fostering online gamer loyalty. Originality/value The findings contribute to relational cohesion theory by identifying novel sources of relational cohesion, i.e. expectancy of relational growth and norm compliance. Hence, game providers should create gamers' expectancy of growth in online relationships. Such expectancy could motivate continued gaming communication, even when gamers are not satisfied with the current state of online relationships. Moreover, we propose the new concept of expectancy of relational growth, which should have a strong impact on online communication in various areas
Business · Cohesion (chemistry · Expectancy theory · Loyalty · Norm (philosophy · Political science · Unified theory of acceptance and use of technology · Attachment and Relationship Dynamics · Customer Service Quality and Loyalty · Digital Marketing and Social Media · Psychology · Social Psychology · Marketing
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| Citations per year | 1.2 |
|---|---|
| Citation span | 2021 - 2026 (6) |
| Highly cited | No |