Exploring the Impact of Technology Affordability and Social Media Usage on Socialization and its Influence on Online Political Participation

Abstract

Purpose: In an increasingly digital civic landscape, understanding the drivers of online political participation (OPP) has become critical. This study investigates the interplay between technological affordances, psychological dispositions, and social media behaviors in shaping citizens' political engagement online.

Methods: Drawing on theories of social capital, self-efficacy, and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), a conceptual model was developed and tested using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) on survey data (N = 450) collected from active internet users. Results confirmed that use of social media significantly enhances online social capital, which in turn positively influences perceived benefits of political participation. Perceived ease of online participation and technological affordances also emerged as significant predictors of OPP. Notably, political self-efficacy (PSE) not only directly predicted OPP and social media use but also moderated the relationship between online social capital and political participation, amplifying its impact for individuals with higher efficacy.

Findings: These findings highlight the importance of both structural enablers (e.g., digital platforms, social networks) and individual agency (e.g., self-belief) in fostering meaningful online civic engagement.

Implications: The study offers theoretical insights and practical implications for platform designers, policymakers, and civic educators aiming to enhance democratic participation in the digital age.

Originality: The present study offers an original contribution by addressing a gap in existing literature and proposing a novel perspective on the subject. Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools were employed in the preparation of this research to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and clarity. Statement on AI Use Artificial intelligence tools were used solely to assist with summarizing the research papers for the literature review, language editing, grammar refinement, model creation, and formatting of this manuscript. No AI tool was used to generate original research content, analyze results, or draw conclusions. All ideas, analyses, and interpretations are the sole work of the authors.

  • Page Number : 54-63

  • Published Date : 2025-09-20

  • Keywords
    Online political participation, Political self-efficacy, Social media, Online social capital, Structural equation modeling, Civic engagement

  • DOI Number
    10.15415/jtmge/2025.161005

  • Authors
    Kaman Kabir Singh and Andy Asare

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