"What is, Becomes What is Right": A Conceptual Framework of Newcomer Legitimacy for Online Discussion Communities. Issue 4 (21st April 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gallagher, Silvia Elena; Savage, Timothy
• Is Part Of: Journal of computer-mediated communication. Volume 20:Issue 4(2015:Jul.)
• Page Start: 400
• Page End: 416
• Publication Date: 2015-04-21
• Subjects: Telematics -- Periodicals; Computer networks -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Communication -- Periodicals; 302.20285
• DOI: 10.1111/jcc4.12122
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1083-6101

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main" id="jcc412122-abs-0001"> <title>Abstract</title> <p id="jcc412122-para-0001">Online community newcomers can face challenges in community participation, acceptance and fostering member relationships. Consequently, a crucial behavioral strategy for community acceptance identified by previous research is legitimacy. However, current conceptions lack classification and structure, and have a narrow focus. A broader scope for investigating legitimacy is needed for improved theoretical and practical application. This research expands on newcomer legitimacy by classifying newcomer behavior in 4 parenting and cycling discussion communities using directed content analysis. The analysis developed a newcomer legitimacy conceptual framework with categories including geographical, contextual, cultural, testimonial, lurking and external legitimacy. This research offers a valuable contribution by classifying existing theory, developing new theory, and providing a conceptual framework to guide future studies of newcomer behavior.</p> </abstract>