Active Participants And Lurkers In Online Discussion Groups: An Exploratory Analysis Of Focus Group Interviews And Observation

Introduction. While online discussion groups have become powerful tools to enhance open democratic discussions, the literature shows that only a marginal percentage of individuals are active participants. The majority of users read the content but do not participate (lurkers). Method and analysis. The aim of this research was to better understand the psychological and environmental factors impacting the online participation of active participants and lurkers through an exploratory method that included four focus groups. Results. Regarding psychological factors, findings show that active participants seemed to be more extroverted and open than lurkers, they felt they had better control over the online environment, a higher ability to influence, higher self-efficacy and a greater need for gratification. Active participants were also more socially active offline. Regarding environmental factors, both active participants and lurkers reported they need a place to express themselves, need the content to be emotionally triggered and relevant, and need a familiar environment. Conclusions. While this study demonstrates the key role that personality factors play in the adoption of the role of lurker or active participant in online communities, environmental factors have also been found which may encourage lurkers to play a more active role.