Emotional Impact of ResearchGate ButtonsRead, Interest Score, Citation, and Recommendation Among Academic Researchers

Abstract

Reaction buttons have become an integral part of digital academic platforms, shaping how researcher interact with scholarly content. On RearchGate, these buttons facilitate engagement, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, distinguishing them from traditional social media interactions.

Purpose This study examines the role of ResearchGate's reaction buttons in fostering academic discourse and professional networking on a global scale. It explores their impact on researcher visibility, motivation for knowledge sharing, and the perception of scholarly recognition.  

Methods: We gathered data utilizing the quantitative approach. The study focused on

ResearchGate users who were given a questionnaire to complete on their own. Out of the 450 individuals targeted, 390 responded, resulting in a response rate of 87%. Both men and women were given equal

opportunities to participate, ensuring a balanced representation of gender among the responses. The data analysis employed a descriptive methodology.

Findings: The findings revealed that researchers utilize reaction buttons as a tool for increasing visibility and attracting citations. Additionally, engagement with these features often leads to comparisons with peers, influencing perceptions of academic success. Researchers also associate reaction buttons with emotional responses, using them to gain a sense of achievement, boost motivation, and mitigate feelings of anxiety related to their research’s reception.

Research limitations: This research focused solely on the emotional impact of ResearchGate buttons among global researchers.

Originality/value: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study sheds light on the emotional impact of ResearchGate buttons among global researchers.