Abstract

Virtual worlds have grown tremendously in recent years yet little is known about individuals that are working within these worlds. A study of several virtual worlds reveals that members are hesitant to reveal personal information which complicates investigations of such environments. We investigated the role of sex and computer self efficacy on users’ intentions to use Second Life (a popular virtual world environment). We conducted a series of qualitative interviews and developed a survey instrument for a data collection and also conducted an experiment to learn more about the individuals behind the avatars in Second Life. Our interviews suggested that the sex, psychological traits and computer self efficacy of a user will be significant predictors of an individual’s intent to use Second Life. Analysis of the data determined that sex and computer self efficacy were statistically insignificant but further analysis suggests that the sex, psychological traits and computer self efficacy of the respondent may influence intentions to use virtual worlds after all.

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