Integrating corrective action theory into the social identity model of collective action to explain U.S. Latinos/as’ social media political expression

This study examines U.S. Latinos/as’ use of social media for collective expression by integrating the Social Identity Model of Collective Action (SIMCA) and corrective action theory. Using survey data from 995 participants, the findings show that ingroup identification was linked to collective expression primarily through indirect pathways. Collective efficacy was the clearest mechanism, while ingroup social media news and information exposure predicted collective expression both directly and indirectly through collective efficacy. In contrast, hostile media perceptions received limited support, as neither their direct nor mediating role was confirmed. By integrating corrective action theory within SIMCA, the study highlights how identity processes, communication environments and efficacy beliefs jointly explain social media expression. Results suggest that collective efficacy and ingroup-relevant information exposure are central in mobilizing social media collective expression among U.S. Latinos/as.