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Original Article
What to Tell About Me? Self-Presentation in Online Communities
Article first published online: 9 JUL 2012
DOI: 10.1111/j.1083-6101.2012.01582.x
© 2012 International Communication Association
Additional Information
How to Cite
Schwämmlein, E. and Wodzicki, K. (2012), What to Tell About Me? Self-Presentation in Online Communities. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 17: 387–407. doi: 10.1111/j.1083-6101.2012.01582.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 9 JUL 2012
- Article first published online: 9 JUL 2012
- Manuscript Accepted: 14 JUL 2011
- Manuscript Revised: 13 JUN 2011
- Manuscript Received: 17 FEB 2011
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- self-presentation;
- online communities;
- interpersonal;
- social psychology;
- identity
This paper investigates how the type of community and personal goals affect self-presentation. In 3 online studies, we simulated the registration process in online communities, presenting either a common-bond or a common-identity community. Study 1 confirmed that members of the common-bond community presented themselves in an individualizing manner, while members of the common-identity community focused on characteristics shared among members of the community. Study 2 investigated underlying processes, showing that the goal to get in contact with other members was less salient in the common-identity than in the common-bond community. Study 3 demonstrated that community members actively manage their self-presentation in accordance with personal goals. Based on these findings, we discuss implications for research and profile design.