An Empirical Examination of Individual Traits as Antecedents to Computer Anxiety and Computer Self-Efficacy
Abstract
To better understand how individual differences influence the use of information technology (IT), this study models and tests relationships among dynamic, IT-specific individual differences (i.e., computer self-efficacy and computer anxiety), stable, situation-specific traits (i.e., personal innovativeness in IT) and stable, broad traits (i.e., trait anxiety and negative affectivity). When compared to broad traits, the model suggests that situation-specific traits exert a more pervasive influence on IT situation-specific individual differences. Further, the model suggests that computer anxiety mediates the influence of situation-specific traits (i.e., personal innovativeness) on computer self-efficacy. Results provide support for many of the hypothesized relationships. From a theoretical perspective, the findings help to further our understanding of the nomological network among individual differences that lead to computer self-efficacy. From a practical perspective, the findings may help IT managers design training programs that more effectively increase the computer self-efficacy of users with different dispositional characteristics.
Recommended Citation
Thatcher, Jason Bennett and Perrewé, Pamela L.. 2002. "An Empirical Examination of Individual Traits as Antecedents to Computer Anxiety and Computer Self-Efficacy," MIS Quarterly, (26: 4).
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