Use Of Networking Sites Research Articles

Social networking behaviour and psychological distress among Malaysian undergraduates during the COVID-19 pandemic

This study investigated the extent of social networking sites usage and its relationship with the undergraduate students’ psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this quantitative correlational study, 212 students completed questionnaires assessing their social networking site use and psychological distress. Descriptive analysis revealed that the students were avid users of social networking sites. On average, almost half of the students used social networking sites more than six times per day while more than onethird of them spent more than three hours each day using social networking sites. Findings also showed that entertainment was the primary purpose of social networking site usage, followed by academic, social, and informational uses. Notably, nearly half of the students reported high levels of anxiety, and approximately one-third experienced significant depression and stress. However, correlational analyses found no significant associations between the length, frequency, and all purposes (social, academic, information, or entertainment) of social networking site usage and the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. These findings suggest a complex interplay between these variables. Given the ever-increasing use of social networking sites and the alarming prevalence of mental distress among students, further studies are needed to delve deeper into this multifaceted relationship.

Understanding SNS use reduction from the perspective of the cognitive-affective model

PurposeThis investigation delves into the elements influencing social networking sites (SNS) use reduction behavior through the lens of the cognitive-affective (CA) model to understand the driving forces behind the decline in SNS use.Design/methodology/approachFollowing the CA model, this research introduces a theoretical framework that integrates the emotions of regret and guilt along with the principles of cognitive dissonance theory. The proposed theoretical framework was subjected to empirical validation, utilizing 453 responses gathered from Instagram users.FindingsThe results suggest that the emotions of regret and guilt have a favorable impact on users’ intention to decrease their SNS usage, with cognitive dissonance exerting an indirect positive influence through these emotions. Additionally, further examination unveils that fear moderates the connection between users’ SNS addiction and the CA components.Research limitations/implicationsAdditional cognitive and affective responses may influence the intricate relation between SNS addiction and SNS use reduction intention.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the existing body of knowledge on the information system use lifecycle by examining shifts in user behavior, notably the transition from excessive use to the adoption of use reduction strategies. Furthermore, it sheds light on the intricate role of cognitive dissonance in elucidating the intention to reduce SNS use from the perspective of the CA model. Additionally, this study advances our current understanding of how the fear of negative consequences arising from excessive usage plays a role as a moderating factor in elucidating the underlying internal factors related to reducing SNS usage.

The mediating role of intentional self-regulation in the constructive and pathological compensation processes of problematic social networking use

Perceived social isolation is a key predictor of college students’ problematic social networking site use (PSNSU). According to the Fear-Driven/Compensation-Seeking Hypothesis, reducing the fear of social isolation and compensating for social deficits serve as negative reinforcement motivations for SNS use, which may potentially result in PSNSU. This study investigated the association between perceived social isolation and PSNSU through the mediating roles of intentional self-regulation and parasocial relationships from a compensatory perspective. Additionally, gender differences in the mediating model were examined. Findings from an online survey of 893 college students in China revealed a positive relationship between perceived social isolation and PSNSU. The serial mediation model showed that intentional self-regulation and parasocial relationships both had positive individual mediating effects, as well as a negative serial mediating effect. Moreover, these mediating effects were only significant among women. The findings suggest that in the association between perceived social isolation and PSNSU, the mediating role of intentional self-regulation forms a constructive compensatory process, while its serial mediating role through parasocial relationships forms a pathological compensatory process. Interventions for PSNSU should take the mediating role of intentional self-regulation in constructive compensation process and the gender difference into consideration.

Social Media Use: A Cognitive Dissonance Analysis of Heavy Users and Engagement Dynamics

Abstract Purpose – This research investigates the correlation between the utilization of social networking sites, user engagement, and cognitive dissonance. It explores the mediating influence of e-compulsive buying behavior (ECBB) in the connection between SNS use, user engagement, and cognitive dissonance, while also examining the moderating impact of self-esteem on SNS use, user engagement, and ECBB. Methodology – Utilizing purposive sampling, this study collected cross-sectional data from 232 female participants actively engaged in social networking sites (SNSs) and who had made 4-5 online purchases during the last six months. Data were gathered through an electronically administered questionnaire. Descriptive data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 21, while SmartPLS version 4.0 was employed to test the proposed hypotheses. Findings – The findings indicate a significant association between the utilization of social networking sites (SNSs) and user engagement with cognitive dissonance and ECBB. Additionally, it was observed that self-esteem played a moderating role in the relationship between SNS use, user engagement, ECBB, and cognitive dissonance, revealing a heightened impact of cognitive dissonance at lower levels of self-esteem. Practical Implications – These results carry implications for implementing interventions aimed at mitigating the adverse consequences associated with social networking site (SNSs) use, thereby fostering favorable mental health outcomes within the community. Moreover, this study offers valuable insights for managers seeking to enhance their social media strategies by analyzing the varied impacts of social media content and understanding the dynamics between posts to engage both active and passive users effectively. Originality/Value – This study contributes to the limited body of empirical research by examining the correlation between social networking site (SNSs) use, user engagement, and cognitive dissonance through the lens of ECBB. Additionally, in response to recent calls from various empirical studies in this field, the inclusion of self-esteem as a moderating variable predicting cognitive dissonance enhances the novelty of this research.

Influence of social networking site use on body image disturbances among young women in China

Young adult women in China are at high risk of body image disturbances and are among the most frequent users of social networking sites (SNS). We investigated the association between SNS use and body image disturbances in this group, as well as the mediating effect of upward social comparison. We recruited 511 women to complete questionnaires on SNS use, upward social comparison, and body dissatisfaction. Results indicated that SNS use was significantly and positively associated with upward social comparison and body dissatisfaction among young women in China, and upward social comparison mediated this association. Findings from the current study provide new evidence for the tripartite influence model of body image and indicate that SNS use is a risk factor for body image disturbances.

Beyond the Screen: A Comprehensive Analysis of Emotional Skills and Social Networking in French Young Adults.

(1) Background: This study investigates the influence of social networks on young adults, focusing on both positive and negative impacts. It considers problematic social networking site use (PSNSU), emotional intelligence, empathy, and the phenomenon of Fear of Missing Out (FoMO). (2) Methods: A comprehensive online survey was conducted with 442 participants aged 18 to 30 years that used various psychometric tools to assess emotional intelligence, empathy, internet and social media use, and FoMO. (3) Results: The study revealed that young adults display low competencies in emotional intelligence and empathy, with a tendency towards problematic internet and social media use. High FoMO scores were observed, correlating with negative internet use outcomes. Gender differences in these aspects were also explored. (4) Conclusions: The findings suggest a complex interaction between social network use, emotional skills, and FoMO that impacts young adults' mental health and social behaviors. This study highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of these relationships and their implications for well-being and social interaction in the digital age.

Cross-lagged panel analysis of the relationship between social networking sites use (SNSU) and sleep problems among university students

BackgroundSleep remains a cornerstone for sociopsychological well-being, but it is in decline, especially among today’s youth. Simultaneously, engagement with social media is escalating. Research has identified a link between social networking sites use and sleep problems; however, the nature and direction of the relations remain obscure. Therefore, it is imperative to pursue longitudinal research to elucidate this correlation and guide suitable intervention practices. The present study aimed to examine the reciprocal relationship between social networking sites use and sleep problems.MethodsBy adopting a three-stage cross-lagged design across four time points, assessment results from 194 university students were gathered at four-week intervals.ResultsThe findings indicate that (1) Social networking sites use was significantly greater in females than in males at all four time points, while sleep problems were significantly greater in females than in males at Time 3 and Time 4. (2) Sleep problems at the second time point serve as a positive predictor of subsequent social networking sites use at the third time point. (3) Social networking sites use at the initial time point could marginally significantly predict sleep problems at the fourth time point.ConclusionsThis study elucidates the dynamic relationship between social networking sites use and sleep problems across an academic term, suggesting the need for temporally tailored interventions.

Profiles of social networking site use and problematic use among adolescents / Perfiles de uso de las redes sociales y uso problemático entre adolescentes

Adolescents’ use of social networks has increased exponentially. Therefore, considerable interest in studying the motives for using social network sites (SNS) and the relationships between these motives and problematic SNS use (PSNU) in adolescents has arisen. This study aimed to examine the relationships between adolescents’ motives for SNS use, frequency of use, numbers of SNS used and PSNU. A total of 1,775 students (50.4% female) aged 11–19 (mean age = 14.11) completed the Scale of Motives for Using Social Networking Sites and the Problematic Social Networking Site Use Scale. The results show that the primary motives for SNS use were entertainment, information-seeking and academic purposes. Significant correlations were found between motives for use and PSNU dimensions except for preference for interaction through SNS and academic purposes. Four user profiles were established based on the motivations for use: discreet users, leisure users, socializing users and hyperconnected users. Those in this last profile scored significantly higher on PSNU, and therefore, identifying adolescents fitting this profile is going to be key to taking appropriate preventive actions.

Issues Related to the Use of Visual Social Networks and Perceived Usefulness of Social Media Literacy During the Recovery Phase: Qualitative Research Among Girls With Eating Disorders.

The patient-centered approach is essential for quality health care and patient safety. Understanding the service user's perspective on the factors maintaining the health problem is crucial for successful treatment, especially for patients who do not recognize their condition as clinically relevant or concerning. Despite the association between intensive use of visual social media and body dissatisfaction and eating disorders, little is known about the meanings users assign to posting or searching for edited photos and the strategies they use to protect themselves from digital risks. This study aims to examine how young women recovering from eating disorders in Northern Italy perceive the health risks and potential benefits associated with visual social networks (ie, Instagram and Snapchat). The literature has found these platforms to be detrimental to online body comparisons. It also explores the perceived usefulness, willingness, and personal interest in coconstructing social media literacy programs with girls recovering from eating disorders. A total of 30 semistructured interviews were conducted with adolescent girls aged 14-17 years at the end of their treatment for eating disorders. The following areas of research were addressed: (1) the meanings associated with the use of Instagram and Snapchat; (2) the investment in the photographic dimension and feedback; (3) the impact of visual social networks on body experiences; (4) the potential and risks perceived in their use; (5) the importance of supporting girls undergoing treatment for eating disorders in using social networks; and (6) the usefulness and willingness to co-design social network literacy programs. Content analysis was applied. A total of 7 main contents emerged: active or passive role in using social networks, the impact of online interactions on body image, investment in the photographic dimension, effects on self-representation, perceived risks, self-protective strategies, and potential benefits. The findings highlight a strong awareness of the processes that trigger body comparisons in the virtual context, creating insecurity and worsening the relationship with oneself. The self-protective behaviors identified are the development of critical thinking, the avoidance of sensitive content, increased control over social networking site use, and a certain skepticism toward developing antagonistic ideologies. All these topics were considered fundamental. The findings provide important insights for health professionals working with youth in preparing media literacy programs. These programs aim to reduce potential risks and amplify the positive effects of online resources. They underscore the importance of addressing this issue during hospitalization to develop skills and critical thinking aimed at changing small habits that perpetuate the problem in everyday life. The inherent limitations in current service practices, which may not adequately address individual needs or impact posttreatment life, must also be considered.

Checking in to Check out? The Effect of Boredom on Craving, Behavioural Inhibition and Social Networking Site Use

Checking in to Check out? The Effect of Boredom on Craving, Behavioural Inhibition and Social Networking Site Use

Feeling phony online – The impostor phenomenon's link to online self-presentation, self-esteem, and social network site use

This study examined the relationship between the impostor phenomenon, self-esteem, online self-presentation, and social network site usage across Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Tinder. The sample consisted of n = 541 individuals (46 % men; Mage = 27, SDage = 8.5). In addition to demographics, quantitative social network site use metrics, and self-esteem, the impostor expression emerged as an incremental predictor for the online self-presentation facets adaptable self (β = 0.26, p < .001), authentic self (β = −0.29, p < .001) and freedom of self online (β = 0.25, p < .001). Self-esteem partially mediated the impostor expression's effect on the authentic self. Findings suggest that a high impostor expression links to lower online authenticity, higher online self-adaption, and a preference for online communication and self-presentation.

Disentangling user fatigue in WeChat use: the configurational interplay of fear of missing out and overload

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine how the interplay of stressor (e.g. fear of missing out, FoMO) and strains (e.g. perceived social overload, communication overload, information overload and system feature overload) in social networking sites (SNS) use can contribute to users’ SNS fatigue from a configurational view.Design/methodology/approachData were collected among 363 SNS users in China via an online survey, and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) was applied in this study to scrutinize the different combinations of FoMO and overload that contribute to the same outcome of SNS fatigue.FindingsSix combinations of casual conditions were identified to underlie SNS fatigue. The results showed that FoMO, perceived information overload and system feature overload are the core conditions that contribute to SNS fatigue when combined with other types of overloads.Originality/valueThe current work supplements the research findings on SNS fatigue by identifying the configurations contributing to SNS fatigue from the joint effects of stressor (FoMO) and strain (perceived social overload, communication overload, information overload and system feature overload) and by providing explanations for SNS fatigue from the configurational perspective.

The impact of active social network sites use on depression: analyzing the sequential mediating role of social support and loneliness

With the continuous development of the modern information society, social networking sites are increasingly becoming an important part of people’s daily lives. The relationship between college students’ mental health and online behavior needs more research. This study investigated the multiple roles of perceived social support and loneliness in mediating the relationship between Chinese university students’ active use of social network sites and depression. A total of 684 college students ( Mage = 19.11, SD = 0.94) were recruited from a university in Shaoxing, China. The independent variable was active social network sites use; the dependent variable was depression; the mediating variables were perceived social support and loneliness. Controlling for demographic variables, active social network sites use significantly and negatively predicts students’ depression levels ( p &lt; .01). Active social network sites use can influence depression through perceived social support ( p &lt; .01). Perceived social support and loneliness played a sequential mediating role in the relationship between active social network sites use and depression ( p &lt; .01).

Mapping the Influences of Social Network Site Use on Cybercrime Victimization: Trends and Recommendations

Mapping the Influences of Social Network Site Use on Cybercrime Victimization: Trends and Recommendations

Social Media Effects Regarding Eating Disorders and Body Image in Young Adolescents.

The following study investigates how eating problems and young people's body image are affected by social media. As social media becomes more pervasive, young teenagers are exposed to many pictures, messages, and influencers encouraging unachievable body and beauty ideals. The study investigates the link between social media usage and the development of binge eating disorder patterns and undesirable body image judgments. It also sheds light on the influence that so-called social media influencers and celebrities have on encouraging disordered eating patterns and forming negative body image perceptions. On websites like Instagram and TikTok, exposure to deliberately selected photographs of "ideal" body types encourages body dissatisfaction and poor self-worth. The research emphasizes social media's possible harm to this vulnerable group's physical and mental health by examining pertinent literature and empirical evidence. It also looks at potential safeguards and methods for fostering good mental and physical health in early adolescents during pervasive social networking site use. Promoting fad diets, weight-loss aids, and the exaltation of extreme thinness aids in the normalization of harmful behaviours. Social media's negative consequences on eating disorders and body image in young teenagers are highlighted by this study in its conclusion. As a critical developmental stage, early adolescence is vulnerable due to the effect of social media, which could normalize unhealthy behaviours and maintain negative body image and insecurities. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and educational programs to mitigate the adverse effects of eating problems and young people's body image in light of social media.

Passive social networking sites use and disordered eating behaviors in adolescents: The roles of upward social comparison and body dissatisfaction and its sex differences

Previous research has indicated a link between social networking site (SNS) use and eating behaviors, but the underlying mechanisms have not been well explored. This study investigated the role of upward social comparison and body dissatisfaction in the relationship between passive SNS use and disordered eating (DE) behaviors, as well as sex differences. A total of 744 middle school students (51.6% female, Mage = 12.87 years, SD = 0.68) completed self-report questionnaires regarding passive SNS use, upward social comparison, body dissatisfaction, and DE behaviors. Results revealed that: 1) girls reported significantly higher levels of passive SNS use, body dissatisfaction, and DE behaviors than boys; 2) passive SNS use was a significant predictor of DE behaviors both sexes; 3) body dissatisfaction mediated the relationship between passive SNS use and DE behaviors for girls; 4) the chain mediating effects of upward social comparison and body dissatisfaction between passive SNS use and DE behaviors were found only among adolescent girls; 5) Compared to boys, body dissatisfaction in girls is more significantly related to DE behaviors, and upward social comparison is more closely related to body dissatisfaction in girls. These findings suggest that passive SNS use, rather than general SNS use, was related to body dissatisfaction and eating concerns. Interventions targeting specific passive SNS users may be an effective avenue for the prevention and management of body-related concerns and disordered eating behavior in adolescent girls.

Testing the role of extended thinking in predicting craving and problematic social network sites use

Background and aimsProblematic Social Network Sites Use (PSNSU) mirrors substance use disorders with regard to symptoms (e.g., diminished control). Recent theoretical advances in the addiction research field recognize a central role of affective and cognitive processes in the development of addictive behaviors. For example, the metacognitive model of addictive behaviors sustains that cognitive processes like extended thinking, disruption in metacognitive monitoring, and thought suppression are associated with addictive behaviors leading to increased craving. The current study aims to test the mediating role of extended thinking (i.e., worry, rumination, and desire thinking) in the relationship between psychological distress and PSNSU.MethodsA community sample of 548 individuals (F = 68.5%, Mage= 29.29 ± 12.04 years) completed an online survey. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was utilized to analyze the relationships among the variables under study.ResultsThe assessed structural model adequately fits the data, accounting for 89% of PSNSU variance. Psychological distress predicted PSNSU through the mediation of desire thinking and rumination and the serial mediation of (i) worry and craving (ii) desire thinking and craving The model is gender invariant.ConclusionsThe current findings provide preliminary evidence for the role of extended thinking in PSNSU. Worry, rumination and desire thinking may be central cognitive processes in eliciting craving and PSNSU for individuals who experience psychological distress.

Brain imaging studies in Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) and problematic social network site use

Abstract Gaming disorder is characterized by ICD 11 as persistent or recurrent gaming behavior manifested by impaired control over gaming, increasing priority given to gaming over other life interests and daily activities; and continuation or escalation of gaming despite the occurrence of negative consequences. IGD shares to a large extent neurobiological alterations seen in other addictions, such as activation in brain regions associated with reward, reduced activity in impulse control areas and impaired decision-making; and reduced functional connectivity in brain networks that are involved in cognitive control, executive function, motivation and reward. Moreover, there were structural changes, mainly reduction in gray matter volume and white matter density. Comorbidity studies indicate that executive control networks in ADHD may increase the susceptibility to develop IGD. Problematic SNS use has been associated with an increased rate of depression, anxiety, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and propensity to excessive alcohol use. It may also lead to vulnerability to aggression, cyberbullying and fear of missing out (FOMO). There is little evidence for cognitive impairments, but there is some preliminary event-related potentials (ERPs) evidence for inefficiency in allocating and monitoring resources and inhibitory control. There is evidence for reduced sleep quality and quantity, longer sleeping latency and more sleep disturbance. Brain imaging studies showed impaired inhibitory-control mechanism, reduced gray matter volumes in the nucleus accumbens, amygdala, and the insula, suggesting rewarding effects of SNS use on the brain.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Parenting-Related Social Networking Site Use and Psychological Distress in Parents of Infants: Cross-sectional Study Exploring the Moderating Effects of Loneliness and Parenting Anxiety.

In the digital age, social networking sites (SNSs) have revolutionized the approach to parenting. These platforms, widely used to access parenting information and support, affect parents both positively and negatively, with negative effects potentially increasing for those experiencing loneliness or anxiety. This study examined the relationship between SNS use and psychological distress among parents of young children, controlling for the moderating effects of loneliness and parenting anxiety. We hypothesized that higher SNS use correlates to greater psychological distress, particularly among parents with elevated levels of loneliness or parenting anxiety. A cross-sectional survey design using a closed web-based questionnaire was employed. Participants included 429 parents (205 mothers and 224 fathers) of children aged 0-3 years recruited through a web-based survey company in Japan. The majority of the participants were couples, with some living with extended family members. The sample also encompassed individuals in cohabiting partnerships and single parents. The survey included measures of psychological distress, loneliness, parenting anxiety, frequency of SNS use for parenting, and covariates. Analytical models to explain psychological distress included interactions between loneliness or parenting anxiety and SNS use, individually for both fathers and mothers. For mothers, a significant interaction effect was determined only between parenting anxiety and SNS use (b=0.247, SE 0.091; P=.008). Meanwhile, for fathers, significant interaction effects were observed for both loneliness (b=0.324, SE 0.127; P=.012) and parenting anxiety (b=0.144, SE 0.069; P=.038) with SNS use. A simple slope analysis for mothers indicated that SNS use was related to psychological distress only at higher levels of parenting anxiety (b=0.304, SE 0.090, β=.317; P<.001). Among fathers, SNS use was associated with psychological distress at higher levels of either parenting anxiety (b=0.330, SE 0.069, β=.346; P<.001) or loneliness (b=0.390, SE 0.098, β=.409; P<.001). The study concluded that the relationship between SNS use and psychological distress among parents of young children is moderated by loneliness and parenting anxiety. The findings highlight the need for tailored approaches to help parents manage SNS use, particularly focusing on those with higher levels of loneliness and parenting anxiety. It is imperative that health professionals provide nuanced guidance to parents on SNS use, considering individual psychological factors and potential gender differences in the impact of SNSs on mental well-being.

Addicted to socialising and still lonely: Acomparative, corpus-driven analysis ofproblematic social networking site use.

Problematic Social Networking Site Use (PSNSU) is not a formally recognised addiction, but it is increasingly discussed as such in academic research and online. Taking a quantitative, exploratory approach, this study aims to (1) determine whether PSNSU is presented like clinically defined addictions by the affected community and (2) address how well measurements of PSNSU fit with the thematic content found within the associated discourse. Four corpora were created for this study: a corpus concerning PSNSU and three control corpora concerning established addictions, including Alcohol Use Disorder, Tobacco Use Disorder and Gaming Disorder. Keywords were identified, collocates and concordances were explored, and shared themes were compared. Findings show broad thematic similarities between PSNSU and the three control addictions as well as prominent interdiscursive references, which indicate possible confirmation bias among speakers. Scales based upon the components model of addiction are suggested as the most appropriate measure of this emerging disorder.