Effects of Reticence, Affect for Communication Channels, and Self-Perceived Competence on Usage of Instant Messaging

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between reticence (Keaten & Kelly, 2000) and instant messaging (IM), including affect for IM, usage of IM, and self-perceived competence using IM in difficult interpersonal situations. Participants (N = 336) from undergraduate courses responded to self-report measures of reticence, affect for IM, general usage of IM, as well as usage in challenging interpersonal situations, and communication competence. A structural equation model indicated that reduced anxiety and inhibition, IM competence, and increased preparation and control explained 34% of the variance in frequency of IM use in a difficult personal situation. Results showed that higher levels of reticence were associated with positive affect for IM, which, in turn, increased the likelihood of using IM in a difficult personal situation.

Keywords:

• Affect for Communication Channels
• Communication Competence
• Computer-Mediated Communication
• Instant Messaging
• Reticence

Notes

Note. EME = enhanced meaning and emotion (for face-to-face communication); RAI = reduced anxiety and inhibition (for instant messaging [IM]); IPC = increased preparation and control (for IM).

Two independent-samples t tests were conducted to analyze the differences in self-reported competence of participants in a high reticence group (above the 66th percentile; N = 97) compared to a low reticence group (at or below the 33rd percentile; N = 103). Results showed that high reticents (M = 36.10, SD = 6.83) reported less competence than low reticents (M = 41.50, SD = 5.86) when discussing a difficult personal situation face to face, t(193) = −5.91, p < .001 (η² = .15). High reticents (M = 31.40, SD = 9.42) also reported less competence than low reticents (M = 34.60, SD = 8.09) when discussing a difficult personal situation using instant messaging, t(183) = −2.42, p < .01 (η² = .03).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Lynne Kelly

Lynne Kelly (PhD, The Pennsylvania State University, 1982) is a professor in the School of Communication at the University of Hartford.

James A. Keaten

James A. Keaten (PhD, The Pennsylvania State University, 1991) is a professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Northern Colorado.

Michael Hazel

Michael Hazel (PhD, Washington State University, 2004) is an assistant professor in the Department of Communication Arts at Gonzaga University.

Jason A. Williams

Jason A. Williams (PhD, University of California, Santa Cruz, 2001) is an assistant professor of psychology at California Polytechnic Institute, San Luis Obispo.