Dysfunction of Self-Regulation and Self-Control in Facebook Addiction

Psychiatr Q. 2016 Sep;87(3):493-500. doi: 10.1007/s11126-015-9403-1.

Abstract

Nowadays, Facebook has become one of the most popular communication tools. With its increasing popularity, a new phenomenon connected with extensive use has appeared: namely, Facebook intrusion. The answer to the question of who is prone to become addicted still remains open. This study aimed to explore whether insufficient self-control and self-regulation resources in Facebook users are related to Facebook addiction. The participants in the study were 284 people. The Facebook Intrusion Questionnaire, the Brief Self-Control Scale, the Self-Regulation Scale, Action Control Scale, and the Multitasking Scale were used. We found that dysfunctional self-control system can be related to Facebook addiction. An insufficient self-control and low level of failure-related action orientation are those psychological characteristics that put Facebook users "at-risk" of Facebook addiction. The study reveals a picture showing that those Facebook users who are able to resist an impulse or temptation, are more self-disciplined, and do not focus on negative emotions are less likely to develop Facebook addiction. The obtained findings may serve as a basis for prevention programs for people at risk of Facebook addiction.

Keywords: Action control; Facebook intrusion; Multitasking; Self-control; Self-regulation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Behavior, Addictive / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internet*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Self-Control / psychology*
  • Social Media*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult