Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The increasing integration of algorithmic recommendation systems in short video platforms has raised concerns about their influence on user autonomy. University students, as active users, may develop varying levels of resistance to algorithmic control, influenced by psychological and social factors. This study aims to examine the relationships between social anxiety, boredom proneness, emotional exhaustion, peer influence, self-control, and algorithmic literacy, and their impact on algorithmic resistance behavior among Chinese university students. The study further investigates the mediating roles of resistance cognition and affective dependence. A structured questionnaire was administered to a sample of Chinese university students using a purposive sampling method. The measurement scales demonstrated acceptable reliability (Cronbach’s α > 0.70). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to assess direct and indirect relationships among variables, with bootstrapping applied to test mediation effects. The findings revealed that social anxiety, boredom proneness, emotional exhaustion, and peer influence had varying direct and indirect effects on algorithmic resistance behavior. Resistance cognition and affective dependence played significant mediating roles in several relationships. Fit indices indicated an acceptable model fit (RMSEA = 0.054, CFI = 0.884, TLI = 0.871). The study highlights the complexity of user responses to algorithmic recommendations and underscores the importance of enhancing algorithmic literacy, promoting self-control, and reducing negative psychological states to foster healthier digital engagement. The results provide theoretical and practical implications for platform design and digital literacy education.
Authors: Liu, Zhangmin, Niyomsilp, Eksiri
Institution: Shinawatra University
Language: Thai
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7219536664