The Goldilocks Hypothesis: Exploring Links Between Shyness, Computer-Mediated Communication, and Socio-Emotional Functioning in Adolescents

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore a conceptual model linking shyness, different types of computer-mediated communication (CMC), and indices of social-emotional functioning among adolescents. Participants were N = 434 (67% female) Ottawa high school students, age 15-18 (M = 16.15 years, SD = .49), who completed self-report assessments of shyness, CMC use (talking, texting, video chat, scrolling, liking), time spent alone, loneliness, social connectedness, and positive/negative affect. Among the results, shyness was positively related time spent alone, loneliness, and negative affect, as well as negatively related to social connectedness, positive affect, and video chat. Different types of CMC were differentially related to indices of socioemotional functioning, but no significant interactions between shyness and technology were found in the prediction of these outcomes. Results are discussed in terms of the implication of technology use on shy adolescents.