ePrints

Credibility of Information in Online Communities

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Nick Hajli

Downloads

Full text for this publication is not currently held within this repository. Alternative links are provided below where available.

Abstract

Social media and Web 2.0 empower individuals to generate content online. It is important to better understand the potential added value of social media for e-health service provision. Social support and credibility of health related information generated via social media is a big challenge for online health communities. In this qualitative research, content of discussions from an online health community is analysed. Two themes are examined: online social support and credibility of online forums. Findings show accuracy and credibility of online communities – user profiles, ratings of posts and improved monitoring of content by advisors improve perceived credibility and trust in online forums and communities. Accuracy and perceived credibility of online health communities is pivotal in facilitating social relationships. While consumers are concerned about the credibility of online information, they benefit from social support and are increasingly turning to social media as a source of information and support. Organizations can benefit from better understanding consumer's use of social media, their concerns about information credibility and need for social support.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Hajli MN, Sims J, Featherman M, Love PED

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Journal of Strategic Marketing

Year: 2014

Print publication date: 14/05/2014

Online publication date: 22/05/2014

Acceptance date: 04/12/2013

ISSN (print): 0965-254X

ISSN (electronic): 1466-4488

Publisher: Routledge

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/0965254X.2014.920904

DOI: 10.1080/0965254X.2014.920904

Altmetrics

Share