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Ciudad-Fernández V, Zarco-Alpuente A, Escrivá-Martínez T, Herrero R, Baños R. How adolescents lose control over social networks: A process-based approach to problematic social network use. Addict Behav 2024; 154:108003. [PMID: 38461744 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2024.108003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Social networks (SNs) are immensely popular, especially among teenagers, yet our understanding of problematic SNs remains limited. Understanding motivations and patterns of use is crucial given the current prevalence of problematic SNs use. Perarles et al. (2020) distinguish two behavioral control modes: Model-Free Control, where actions are characterized by actions driven by immediate gratification without reflective consideration for long-term consequences, and Model-Based Control, enabling planned and goal-directed actions. Both control modes can lead to problematic social network use. This study aims to delve into problematic SNs use and the underlying motives behind adolescents' participation in SNs, drawing upon the theoretical proposal by Perales et al. (2020). We conducted four focus groups with adolescents aged 13-17 (50 % female; Mage = 14.5, SD = 1.75), comprising two public school and two Catholic private school groups. Thematic analysis using Atlas.ti software revealed three themes. The first uncovers characteristics of problematic SNs use, including withdrawal, increased usage time, impaired control, behavioral salience and attentional capture and cognitive hijacking. The second spotlights motives, emphasizing emotional regulation, finding out what is going on, and social interaction. The third theme explores consequences such as compromised academic performance and physical harm. In conclusion, addressing both motives and problematic behaviors present a more effective approach to confronting SNs use challenges and fostering healthier online experiences for adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor Ciudad-Fernández
- Department of Personality, Evaluation and Psychological Treatments, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Valencia 46010, Spain; Polibienestar Research Institute, University of Valencia, Valencia 46022, Spain.
| | - Alfredo Zarco-Alpuente
- Department of Basic Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Valencia 46010, Spain.
| | - Tamara Escrivá-Martínez
- Department of Personality, Evaluation and Psychological Treatments, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Valencia 46010, Spain; Polibienestar Research Institute, University of Valencia, Valencia 46022, Spain; CIBERObn Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain.
| | - Rocío Herrero
- Polibienestar Research Institute, University of Valencia, Valencia 46022, Spain; CIBERObn Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain; Department of Psychology and Sociology, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Zaragoza, 44003 Teruel, Spain.
| | - Rosa Baños
- Department of Personality, Evaluation and Psychological Treatments, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Valencia 46010, Spain; Polibienestar Research Institute, University of Valencia, Valencia 46022, Spain; CIBERObn Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain.
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