Abstract
In this study, we explore the effect of peer recognition on content creation within a prominent Chinese Question-and-Answer (Q&A) platform, specifically focusing on whether votes from peers encourage influencers to engage in providing more answers. Using panel regression models with instrumental variables, our analysis reveals that peer votes have a substantial positive effect on content production. Additionally, we investigate the consequences of two distinct badge policies, the “self-authentication” and the “best-answerer” badge, on content production. Our results demonstrate that while badges aid users in recognizing the quality of an influencer, badges with strong connotations may constrain content creation due to concerns about reputation management and privacy. As such, strategies that enhance platform traffic by promoting voting could be counterproductive if they exacerbate privacy and reputation worries. Our findings provide valuable insights into the role of peer recognition and badge policies in shaping content contribution, bearing crucial policy implications for the design of Q&A platforms.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
