Online communities, SNSs, and other forms of group sites have become major aspects of life for numerous Americans. According to the findings of Rainie, Purcell, and Smith, it has become “deeply embedded in group and organizational life” in theU.S.A.These three individuals came to the conclusion that up to 80% of internet users participate in online groups. However, these blogging sites are not restricted to the internet, as Rainie, Purcell, and Smith found out that 56% of non-internet users also partake in SNSs and online communities. This much communication with each other allows for the site members to trust one another with their lives, even though they may never meet each other face-to-face. As a result, the online counts of voluntary participation and group life have climbed tremendously over the course of a few years.
Civic engagement is very similar to social capital. This is because people who join civic sites have mixed reasons or purposes as to why they join, much like when people join online communities like Facebook or Twitter. For example, as Jansen stated in his findings, Americans that participate in online religious groups are usually more involved with their online groups and in their communities. It’s almost like they’re trying to set an example for other site members to follow. With common morality at an all-time low, following examples that church groups have set would probably be a wise decision.
I would be interested to see studies that attempt to correlate the presence of online communities and groups with an increase in civic involvement. We know that CMC is a tool to connect with one another. But are the same people that were prone to being involved offline the same ones who are using the internet? Or are more people engaging because of online access to more information about joining efforts with other groups?
I agree with you that people may vary of their reasons as why to join a certain online or offline community. In fact, peole usually feel good about themselves and have a higher selfesteem when they do volunteer work with groups and help other people. According to the finding of Rainie people who they participate on groups are more likely to feel that they were part of this group and its achievments. So because they are in that group the group is more successful, and this, eventually led them to feel good about themselves. and what they are doing for their goup.
As you stated Rainie, Purcell, and Smith found out that 56% of non-internet users also partake in SNSs and online communities. This is so true from person experiences I do not take part in any SNSs or online communities. However, I have participated in different group functions that may have been discussed in an online forum I have also connected with new people I never meet who do take part in online communication groups and SNS site. Some times it’s not about what you know or what you see in your communication online. Many people find out thing by word of mouth. I participated in many activities because my friends or family informed me or wanted me to attend with them.
Most people now a days, can not go a day without logging into Facebook or Twitter. I am one of those people. Its a way to stay connectedd 24/7 with not only the people you love, but alway with the groups and interests that you love as well.