This study revisits the effectiveness of internet meme–based advertising on social media from the perspective of timeliness, examining how social cues condition that effect and whether group identification functions as an explanatory mechanism. Buil...
This study revisits the effectiveness of internet meme–based advertising on social media from the perspective of timeliness, examining how social cues condition that effect and whether group identification functions as an explanatory mechanism. Building on prior work on memes, social cues, group identification, and consumer engagement, the research formulates a model in which the level of timeliness (high vs. low) and social cues (present vs. absent) jointly influence SNS engagement intention, with group identification proposed as a mediator.
To test these ideas, the study employs a 2 × 2 between-subjects experiment, preceded by a pretest for stimulus selection and manipulation checks. After data collection, measurement reliability and validity are assessed, and hypotheses are evaluated using SPSS and the PROCESS Macro for moderated mediation analysis.
The study contributes to meme advertising research by introducing an interaction framework between the level of timeliness and social cues and by identifying group identification as a process variable that clarifies when and why meme-based ads decrease or increase SNS engagement intentions. Managerially, the findings suggest that when brands must work with less timely memes, thoughtfully designed in-feed social cues that foreground communal engagement can sustain or enhance SNS participation by strengthening a sense of shared identity and belonging.