Civic engagement in anti-Asian violence activism: a comparative view between Asians and non-Asian ethnic groups in the United States

ABSTRACT

This study examined adults’ motivation, mobilization through social media, and intention of engagement (online and offline) in anti-Asian violence activism in the United States. Using self-determination theory, two studies were conducted to test the model and the moderation effect of political ideology and interest on engagement. Study 1 (N = 250) found that regardless of political ideology, the motivation of non-Asian ethnic groups predicted mobilization and online/offline engagement in anti-Asian violence activism. Study 2 (N = 297) found the same result that the motivation-mobilization-engagement model was significant without the influence of political interest. The results imply that anti-Asian violence appears to be a bipartisan issue for the public’s motivation, mobilization, and engagement. The results present that anti-Asian violence is not only Asians’ issue but also everyone’s concern. A more open and affirmative approach to the prevention of anti-Asian violence for the public is suggested.

KEYWORDS:

• Anti-Asian violence
• motivation
• mobilization
• engagement

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Faculty Research Fund of the Department of Communication at The University of Texas at San Antonio under Grant Number 0000295899.

Notes on contributors

Seok Kang

Seok Kang (Ph.D., The University of Georgia) is Professor of Digital Communication and Director of Digital Initiatives at the University of Texas at San Antonio. His research interests include computational communication, mobile media, data science, text mining, machine learning, network analysis, digital journalism, social media, virtual reality, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence. His current research is focused on human–computer interaction that applies data science. Dr. Kang has published 50 refereed journal articles and seven book chapters. He also published ten books in the digital communication field. His articles have appeared in Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media, Journalism and Mass Communication Quarterly, The Asian Journal of Communication, The International Journal of Mobile Communications, International Journal of Communication, Journalism and Mass Communication Educator, CyberPsychology and Behavior, Public Relations Review, Health Communication, Mass Communication and Society, and among others.