Social media usage, electronic word of mouth and purchase-decision involvement

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to propose the theory which gives valuable insight into the context of social media, electronic word of mouth (EWOM), trust and purchase-decision involvement. Design/methodology/approach: A review of the existing literature was carried out and construct-wise measurement items were adapted from existing scales. Experts reviewed the items and validated. Convergent validity, discriminant validity and reliability of the scales were tested with the data collected from 252 respondents. Structural equation modeling was used to examine the proposed model. Findings: Social media usage and EWOM have positive impact on purchase-decision involvement and online trust plays a vital mediating role in this context. Originality/value: The implications of findings of this research are relevant for managers and public policy makers. People can be sensitized against any menace or can be made aware about any good things in the society in true sense so that they become proactive, participate and take decision (or purchase decision).