Does Computer-Mediated Communication Competence Enrich Social Capital? The Mediating Role of Social Networks Sites

Abstract

Social capital enriches social relationships and helps individuals accomplish goals that may not be achievable without it. Computer-mediated communication (CMC) tools have emerged as channels for the development of social capital. Social networks sites (SNSs) are the most crucial of these tools because SNSs users account for half of the world’s population. Numerous studies have explored the factors influencing SNSs use; however, few studies have investigated competence in CMC, a major determinant of SNSs use. Moreover, the relationship between SNSs use and competence in CMC has not been identified, nor has in their effect on social capital. This study bridges this gap by proposing a novel model to determine this relationship, with SNSs as a mediator. The findings can be used as a reference for using competence in CMC to increase the social capital of individuals, thereby offering a competitive advantage to companies on the market.