Analyzing the Relationship between Internet Using and Political Approach and Participation (Case Study: Isfahan)

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relation between using the internet and political and participation among citizens of Isfahan. Internet has engendered fundamental changes in the nature and forms of political behavior in different societies. On the one hand Internet has expanded democratic information and attitudes and on the other has caused a kind of political participation. In this research, 384 citizens of Isfahan selected through random sampling were studied by applying survey method and using questionnaires. To test the hypotheses correlation analysis, regression analysis and path analysis methods were used. Research findings demonstrated that there is a significant relation between the amount and manner of using the internet and the degree and type of political participation. Using news networks and educational programs improves political trust, political effectiveness and conventional political participation among citizens. Furthermore, social networks and entertainment programs enhance unconventional political participation.