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Self-esteem and problematic mobile social media use among Chinese adolescents: Adolescent social anxiety as a mediator

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigated the association between self-esteem and problematic mobile social media use (PMSMU) in junior high school students, along with the mediating effect of adolescent social anxiety. The sample comprised 697 junior high school students from China, who completed the Self-Esteem Scale, the Social Anxiety Scale for Adolescents, and the Adolescent Problematic Mobile Social Media Use Scale. The results showed that self-esteem was negatively associated with PMSMU among adolescents, and social anxiety partially mediated this relationship. Participants with high levels of self-esteem tended to experience low levels of social anxiety, which, in turn, reduced their vulnerability to PMSMU. By elucidating the relationships between self-esteem, social anxiety, and PMSMU, this research has advanced existing theoretical frameworks, providing insights for developing targeted mental health programs and responsible social media use interventions for adolescents.

Source: Social Behavior and Personality An International Journal

DOI: 10.2224/sbp.15035

Authors: Zhengqin Gao, Ligang Wang, Wenbin Gao

Institutions: Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Impact of Technology on Adolescents

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7117310265

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