Educational, Psychological, and Behavioral Considerations in Niche Online Communities

Book excerpt: Online communities continue to evolve as more people take on a virtual presence. This shift in online communities and the diversity of individuals populating the web has allowed for the emergence of virtual communities centered on niche topics of interests ranging from heavy metal music to indigenous and native culture. Educational, Psychological, and Behavioral Considerations in Niche Online Communities examines the presence of online communities centered around niche topics of interest and the impact of these virtual spaces on community members. Taking perspectives from interdisciplinary fields such as sociology, psychology, and education, this publication will appeal to educators, psychologists, behaviorists, students, and researchers interested in the impact of virtual communities on individuals as well as the opportunities these online communities present.