A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Young adults’ risk profiles and predictive factors of Problematic Social Media Use (PSMU): a cross-sectional study




AuthorsHylkilä, Krista; Kääriäinen, Maria; Peltonen, Aino; Castrén, Sari; Mustonen, Terhi; Konttila, Jenni; Männikkö, Niko

PublisherSpringer Nature

Publication year2025

Journal: Current Psychology

Volume44

First page 6848

Last page6862

ISSN1046-1310

eISSN1936-4733

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-025-07662-w

Publication's open availability at the time of reportingOpen Access

Publication channel's open availability Partially Open Access publication channel

Web address https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-025-07662-w

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/515516542

Self-archived copy's licenceCC BY

Self-archived copy's versionPublisher`s PDF


Abstract

Problematic social media use (PSMU) is a current public health concern. The current study aimed to identify the risk profiles and predictive factors of PSMU among young Finnish adults using a cross-sectional design. Survey data were analysed with K-means clustering and logistic regression, revealing three profiles: high-risk (HRG), moderate-risk (MRG), and low-risk (LRG) groups. The HRG was characterized by low conscientiousness and self-esteem, high neuroticism, and ADHD symptoms. No significant differences were noted in social support and other personality traits across profiles. Significant associations were found between profiles and sociodemographic factors, social media use duration, and motivations for use. These findings underscore the need to consider sociodemographic, psychosocial, and motivational factors in identifying individuals at risk for PSMU. The study’s outcomes can help develop effective policies and interventions for preventing and identifying PSMU.


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Funding information in the publication
Open Access funding provided by University of Oulu (including Oulu University Hospital).
None.


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