Problematic social networks use: Quantitative and qualitative analysis

It has been stated that the dysfunctional use of social networks may be related to some complaints about cognitive, emotional and social. According to the I-PACE model associated with behavioral addictions, it has been reported that problematic social networks use (PSNU) is likely to develop in those who experience high levels of impulsivity, anxiety, depression and craving. The aim of the study is to examine the relationship pattern between PSNU and depression, anxiety, impulsivity, experiential avoidance (EA) and craving. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used in the research. One thousand one hundred forty participants between the ages of eighteen and forty five were included in the research. Mediator role of craving in the relationship between depression, anxiety, impulsivity and PSNU; the moderator role of EA was examined. The results of the study showed that (1) while craving was found a mediating role in the relationship between anxiety motor impulsivity and PSNU; No mediator role of craving was observed in the relationship between depression, non planning and attention impulsivity and PSNU. (2) While the moderator role of EA was observed in the relationship between depression and PSNU; No moderator role of EA was found in the relationship between anxiety, non planning, motor impulsivity, attention impulsivity and PSNU. (3) In the results of the qualitative method, it was showed that those who use social networks at a problematic level salience, mood modification, tolerance, withdrawal, conflict, relapse and craving. In addition, it was concluded that fear of missing out (FOMO), inhibition control difficulty, cue reactivity, denial, distraction, dysregulated mood, negative affect, behavioral avoidance and addiction processes were experienced. It has been suggested that depression, anxiety, motor impulsivity, EA, craving, salience, mood modification, tolerance, withdrawal, conflict, relapse could evaluated in psychosocial examination and treatment of PSNU.