Do Shy People Prefer to Send E-Mail?
Personality Effects on Communication Media Preferences in Threatening and Nonthreatening Situations
Abstract
Personality aspects are largely neglected in existing models of media preferences. Based on a functional approach, it is hypothesized that media preferences are affected by Extraversion and Neuroticism particularly in situations that correspond to the motivational implications of these traits. The results of a questionnaire study (N = 228) on preferences for communication media with varying levels of media richness (face-to-face conversation, e-mail) revealed Extraversion and Neuroticism as significant predictors of media preferences. Moreover, these effects were mediated by the motivational manifestations of these traits in social situations (i.e., social skills, social anxiety). Finally, the effects were moderated by the potential threat of a communication situation, showing significant trait effects particularly in social conflicts.
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