Influence of cartoon characters on generation alpha in purchase decisions
ISSN: 1747-3616
Article publication date: 12 November 2021
Issue publication date: 10 May 2022
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to understand the influence of cartoon characters on the generation alpha (GA) in purchase decision-making, supported by the theory of planned behaviour.
Design/methodology/approach
Quantitative study was used to collect data from 294 Indian parents on behalf of their children (between 8 and 12 years) using convenience sampling and 20 items Likert scale questionnaire. Partial least squares-structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data and for hypothesis testing.
Findings
The study shows the favourable impact of cartoon characters to influence the behaviour of GA while making the final purchase decision. The likability was found to be significantly related to the recall, willingness to try/buy. The recall was significantly related to willingness to try/buy and purchase intention. Willingness to try/but was significantly related to purchase intention, but it has no significant relation with the final purchase decision, whereas purchase intention had significant relation with the final purchase decision.
Practical implications
The study indicates that generating likability for cartoon characters among GA is important. Managers should recognize that although parents make the final purchase decision, however, children play an influential role. Advertisers should plan their communication accordingly. An emotional connection with cartoons can influence GA, which further impacts recall, willingness to try/buy, purchase intention and decision.
Originality/value
Various studies have been conducted in western countries, but very few studies have been conducted in emerging markets like India, highlighting cartoon characters’ influence on GA’s purchase decision-making, with theoretical underpinnings. The study also explores the importance of GA, an emerging consumer market in today’s digitalized era, which is highly influenced by technological gadgets. It becomes challenging for marketers to promote their products on television to influence GA purchase behaviour.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Conflict of interest statement: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.The authors have not received any funding support to complete this work.
Citation
Gupta, A., Kumar, J., Tewary, T. and Virk, N.K. (2022), "Influence of cartoon characters on generation alpha in purchase decisions", Young Consumers, Vol. 23 No. 2, pp. 282-303. https://doi.org/10.1108/YC-06-2021-1342
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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