How Peer Communication and Engagement Motivations Influence Social Media Shopping Behavior: Evidence from China and the United States

Cyberpsychol Behav Soc Netw. 2015 Oct;18(10):595-601. doi: 10.1089/cyber.2015.0190. Epub 2015 Sep 16.

Abstract

Based on consumer socialization theory, this study proposes and tests a conceptual model of social media shopping behavior, which links the antecedents of user motivations of engagement and peer communication about products to shopping behavior through social media. A cross-cultural survey was conducted with social media users in two culturally distinct markets with the largest Internet population: China (n=304) and the United States (n=328). Findings showed that social interaction, information, and remuneration were positive antecedents of peer communication for users from both countries. Peer communication positively impacted social media shopping behavior, and cultural differences were observed, with social interaction being important to Chinese users' shopping behavior, while remuneration was more important to American users. Implications are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • China
  • Communication*
  • Consumer Behavior*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internet*
  • Interpersonal Relations*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Models, Psychological
  • Motivation*
  • Peer Group*
  • Social Behavior
  • Social Media*
  • United States
  • Young Adult