The effects of engagement factors of virtual advertising on purchase intention: The mediating role of advertising attitude

Abstract

Background/Objectives: There has been an increasing interest in virtual advertising in a variety of contents. The current research aims to identify the effect of engagement features of virtual advertising in soap operas and entertainment programs on advertising attitude and purchase intention. Methods/Statistical Analysis: Data was collected from a group of 234 subjects who had experienced virtual advertising and analysis of covariance was conducted to the collected data. Findings: It was found that all the engagement features - visibility, amusement and usefulness - had a positive effect on advertising attitude. Second, visibility and usefulness exerted a positive influence on purchase intention. Third, attitude towards virtual advertising had a positive effect on purchasing intention. Finally, visibility and usefulness had a partial mediating effect, while amusement had a complete mediating effect. Improvements/Applications: The findings of the present research are expected to provide suggestions to find a way to enhance the effect of virtual advertising.