Religion and New Media: A Uses and Gratifications Approach

This research examines specific relationships between new media and religion. While prior research has focused on the question of whether a relationship exists, we explore technology usage as a predictor of specific religious behavior. Using a sample (N = 423) comprising a cross-section of religious...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of media and religion
Main Author: Ratcliff, Amanda Jo (Author)
Contributors: McCarty, Josh (Other) ; Ritter, Matt (Other)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
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Published: Routledge, Taylor and Francis Group [2017]
In: Journal of media and religion
Standardized Subjects / Keyword chains:B Religion / New media / Religious behavior / Consumer behavior
Online Access: Volltext (Verlag)
Description
Summary:This research examines specific relationships between new media and religion. While prior research has focused on the question of whether a relationship exists, we explore technology usage as a predictor of specific religious behavior. Using a sample (N = 423) comprising a cross-section of religious and cultural backgrounds, results indicate that attitudes toward technology and use of social media contribute to how people view religion as a mechanism for meeting needs. Applying uses and gratifications theory in a unique way, three needs related to religion emerged: religion as a means of passing time, religion as a mode of meeting self needs, and religion as a catalyst for learning. We discuss implications of our findings.
ISSN:1534-8415
Contains:Enthalten in: Journal of media and religion
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.1080/15348423.2017.1274589