Social-Mediated Crisis Communication Research: How Information Generation, Consumption, and Transmission Influence Communication Processes and Outcomes

Yan Jin, Lucinda Austin, and Brooke Liu. (forthcoming). “Social-Mediated Crisis Communication Research: How Information Generation, Consumption, and Transmission Influence Communication Processes and Outcomes.” The Handbook of Crisis Communication (2^nd edition) (Eds. W. T. Coombs and S. J. Holladay), Wiley-Blackwell.

Abstract: Jin, Austin, and Liu provide insights into their innovative social-mediated crisis communication (SMCC) model. Jin et al. note the SMCC was born out of a desire to provide theoretically informed research on the role of social media in crisis communication. Since its creation, the SMCC model has become one of the most cited theories in the domain of social media, crisis, and public relations. Jin et al. explain that the SMCC model has been refined through a series of empirical studies over the past decade, pointing to the need for advanced knowledge on how organizations and publics can harness social media to effectively prepare for and respond to crises, as well as the urgency of understanding the potential dark side of social media and emerging technology. This chapter synthesizes research developing and testing the SMCC model along with related investigations. Jin et al. conclude with recommendations for future research on social media and crisis communication. This chapter provides important details about the SMCC model that should serve as a touchstone for future researchers who utilize the SMCC model in their own crisis communication research.