Relationship Between Loneliness, Inadequacy, Social Anxiety and Online Social Support with Social Media Addiction

Abstract

The primary objective of this study is to explore the correlations between feelings of loneliness, inadequacy, and social anxiety, alongside virtual social support levels, in relation to the extent of social media addiction. Additionally, the study aims to assess a predictive path analysis model, comprised of these explanatory variables, to enhance comprehension of social media addiction. Targeting young adults aged 18-35, acknowledged for their heightened engagement with internet and social media, the study recruited a total sample size of 250 participants. Data collection involved the use of a Participant Information Form, UCLA Loneliness Scale, Inferiority Feeling Scale, Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale, Online Social Support Scale, and Social Media Addiction Scale. Correlation analysis outcomes revealed a significant and positive association between loneliness, inadequacy, social anxiety, virtual social support scores, and the overall social media addiction score. Moreover, multiple regression analysis indicated that all independent variables accounted for 44% of the total variance in social media addiction scores. Lastly, employing a path analysis model demonstrated remarkably high fit indices (CMIN/DF=1.163; CFI=.998; GFI=.997; NFI=.993; AGFI = .949; RMSEA=.034), elucidating direct and indirect relationships between independent variables and social media addiction.