Do You Want to BeReal? Usage Intention and Well-Being for the Social Network BeReal

Available only in English

Abstract:

The social network site (SNS) “BeReal” recently increased in popularity. In contrast to conventional SNS, BeReal counteracts staged self-portrayal and employing filters. Instead, it aims to uncover how users actually are by posting a photo at an unannounced time within a short period. Therefore, other, BeReal-specific factors need to be taken into account to entirely understand why people are (not) using this app. Building on the Self-Determination Theory, components of the Unified Theory of Acceptance, Use of Technology 2, and BeReal-specific particularities, a research model is validated by n=657 consumers using partial least square structural equation modeling. The authors appear to be the first to shed light on consumers’ usage intentions of this special type of SNS.