Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Department of Psychology, Payame Noor University (PNU), Iran
2 Master of Science in Psychology, Payam Noor University, Tehran, Iran.
3 Associate Professor of Psychology, Maragheh University, Maraghe, Iran.
Abstract
This study aimed to present a causal model of digital narcissism among social media users based on physical self-esteem, social competence, and social identity. The research employed a correlational method using structural equation modeling (SEM). The statistical population included all high school students in Maragheh City in 2024, totaling 4500 individuals. The sample size was determined to be 381 participants based on Morgan's table. Participants were selected using a multistage cluster sampling method. Data collection instruments included the Digital Narcissism Questionnaire (ONPI), the Physical Self-Esteem Scale (CPSES), the Social Identity Questionnaire (SIQ), and the Social Competence Questionnaire (SCQ). Data analysis was conducted using Pearson correlation, bootstrap methods, and the Sobel test in SPSS and AMOS software version 26. The findings revealed that physical self-esteem and social identity, with the mediating role of social competence, significantly contributed to the explanation of digital narcissism in the proposed model. Altogether, the variables in the model explained 50% of the variance in users' digital narcissism. The direct effects of social identity (-0.33), social competence (-0.26), and physical self-esteem (-0.43) on digital narcissism were significant. Additionally, the indirect effects of physical self-esteem (t-value = -2.01) and social identity (t-value = -2.36) through social competence were also statistically significant. Given the findings, it can be concluded that physical self-esteem, social identity, and social competence have a substantial impact on digital narcissism among users. These factors should be considered in addressing the challenges of digital narcissism and enhancing the quality of online social interactions.
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