Are you a facebook addict? Exploring the relationship of facebook addiction with usage patterns and personality construction.

Abstract

With the sheer power of network effects, the dominance of social media is here to stay, and there is no doubt of the extent of both positive and negative influence it has on our

lives. In this study, we seek to understand the relation of Facebook usage patterns to Facebook addiction and in addition examine and explore the possibilities using personality traits as a predictor of Facebook addiction.

Our sample consisted of 153 undergraduates from the Nanyang Technological University (NTU), all of who are daily users. Measuring Facebook usage dimensions, Facebook Addiction – Engagement and personality, correlation analysis found the amount of time spent on Facebook daily and sharing content exhibits a positive relationship with Facebook addiction. On the other hand, obtaining content has negative

correlation with Facebook addiction. Regression analysis revealed that personality significantly predicts Facebook addiction, however did not explain a large amount of variance. It is also found that conscientiousness is negatively related to Facebook addiction, while neuroticism is positively related to Facebook addiction.

Despite limitations of the study, these findings can serve as a starting point for understanding the effect of Facebook usage and personality traits can have on Facebook addiction. Moreover, there is scope for future research as there are many factors besides personality traits such as Personal Innovativeness in Technology, which might contribute to Facebook addiction.