Modeling problematic use of social media in an eastern culture: a Chinese study

Background: Despite the advantages of social media (SMs), SM usage may become problematic. A theoretical model of problematic use of social media (PUSM) across different
cultural contexts is currently lacking. We conducted a large cross-cultural study, adapting the
Generalized Problematic Internet Use Scale 2 (GPIUS2) into Problematic Social Network
Sites Use Scale (PSNSUS), to examine the factor structure of PSNSUS and the feasibility
of the model of generalized PIU in the context of PUSM across multiple cultures. Here we
present the study from China. Methods: A convenience sample of 1392 individuals (aged
18-50 years) completed a self-reported online survey, including their demographics and a
15-items PSNSUS. A confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling was used
to test the theoretical model. Results: The Chinese version of the PSNSUS (including five
subscales, i.e., preference for online social interaction - POSI, mood regulation, cognitive
preoccupation, compulsive use, and negative outcomes) showed good fit indices and internal consistency. The POSI factor positively predicted SM use for mood regulation and poor
self-regulation; using SMs for mood regulation positively predicted poor self-regulation; and
poor self-regulation positively predicted negative outcomes of SMs use. Conclusions: The
results suggest that generalized PIU should be considered in the context of PUSM, and the
Chinese version of the PSNSUS may serve as a valuable tool in understanding SM use in
China.