Feelings of Emptiness on Facebook Use

Abstract

This study examined the factors for feelings of emptiness on Facebook use, and how these feelings are related to the user's personal attributes and the addiction to Facebook usage. For analysis, the factors for feelings of emptiness on Facebook use among college students were measured and a questionnaire was developed. After analysis, 3 factors were identified: 'isolation and loneliness', 'self-regulation disorder', and 'unreality'. Then, variables influencing the feelings of emptiness were identified. Among big 5 personalities, neuroticism, agreeableness, and openness to experience were related to the factors for feelings of emptiness. The study also found that motivations such as 'self-disclosure' and 'social pressure from others' tended to enhance the feelings of emptiness. Finally, the study examined the relationship between feelings of emptiness on Facebook use and the addiction to it. Factors of 'isolation and loneliness' and 'unreality' revealed more addiction tendency on Facebook.■ keyword :|Feelings of Emptiness|Big 5 Personality|User' s Motivation|Addiction Syndrome|