Social Media Addiction, Online Networking and Aggression in Young Adults
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52053/jpap.v6i4.366Keywords:
Aggression, Mediating Role, Online Networking, Social Media Addiction, Young AdultsAbstract
Social media serves as a communication platform that fosters connections in the digital space. However, problematic interactions with these platforms can negatively impact psychological well-being. Numerous studies indicate that too much social media use leads to several mental health problems. The objective of the study was to investigate the mediating role of online networking in the relationship between social media addiction and aggression among young adults. In this study, the purposive sampling and correlation research design were used. A number of N=270 participants (158 men, 112 women) aged 18 to 30 years, (M=22.79, SD=2.26) participated in the study. Three assessment tools were utilized: The Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale, Buss and Perry Aggression Questionnaire Short Form and the Revised Social Connectedness Scale. Results show a non-significant positive relationship between social media addiction and online networking. However, the aggression is significantly correlated with both social media addiction and online networking in young adults. Using Hayes' Model 4, the results reveal a partially significant influence of social media addiction on aggression mediated by online networking, with direct and total effects being significantly positive, while the indirect effect is not significant. The results show in gender comparison that men had significant higher levels of addiction of social media, and although, their scores for online networking and aggression were higher than those of women, these differences were not statistically significant. The study discusses its findings in the context of existing literature and concludes with recommendations and limitations, along with suggestions for improving youth welfare.
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