Shame experiences and Problematic Social Networking Sites Use: an unexplored association

The current study investigates the main and indirect effects of shame experiences and perceived benefits of computer-mediated communication (CMC) compared with face-to-face communication, on Problematic Social Networking Sites Use (PSNSU). Amodel in which perceived benefits of CMC (i.e. escapism, control over self-presentation, and approval/acceptance) mediate the association between shame and PSNSU was tested. Method: A sample of 590 undergraduate students (mean age = 22.29 + 2.079; F = 53.2%) completed measures of shame experiences, perceived benefits of CMC and PSNSU. The assessed structural model produced adequate fit to the data (χ2= 352.99; df = 92; p <.001; RMSEA [90% CI] =.07 [.06-.08]; CFI = .97; SRMR = .06). Variables accounted for 50% of the variance in PSNSU. A partial mediation model in which shame predicted PSNSU levels through the perceived benefits of CMC was found. A direct relationship between shame and PSNSU was also detected. Conclusions: The current study highlights how feelings of shame can contribute to problematic use of SNS and emphasizes the necessity of taking into account the perceived benefits of CMC when exploring psychological risk factors for PSNSU.