Journal article
Social anxiety and online social interaction
Australian Psychologist, Vol.56(2), pp.142-153
2021
PMID: 32856360
Abstract
Objective: Clark and Wells cognitive model of social anxiety has significant empirical support and has informed evidence-based treatments for Social Anxiety Disorder. However, to date, research for this model is related to face-to-face social interactions. Considering the increased rates of Internet use and social media worldwide, this study aimed to examine the utility of this model regarding online social interactions, the role of Internet use as an avoidance strategy for face-to-face interactions, and the relationship between social anxiety, online social interactions, and wellbeing.
Method: A 109 individuals were recruited via social media to complete a battery of self-report questionnaires assessing social anxiety and Internet use.
Results: The findings support the cognitive model of Social Anxiety Disorder and lend support to its relevance in online social interactions. Furthermore, we found that individuals with a high level of social anxiety experience fewer negative social cognitions, less fear of negative evaluation, and prefer online social communication compared to face-to-face communication. However, social anxiety was not significantly associated with Internet use. In contrast to previous research, online social interaction was related to poorer wellbeing regardless of social anxiety.
Conclusion: These findings suggest that Internet use and social anxiety related to online social interactions may be important areas for mental health assessment. Despite study limitations, our findings encourage future research in this area.
Details
- Title
- Social anxiety and online social interaction
- Authors
- Nicholas Hutchins (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Social Sciences - LegacyAndrew Allen (Corresponding Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - LegacyMichelle Curran (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Social Sciences - LegacyLee Kannis-Dymand (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - Legacy
- Publication details
- Australian Psychologist, Vol.56(2), pp.142-153
- Publisher
- John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
- DOI
- 10.1080/00050067.2021.1890977
- ISSN
- 1742-9544
- PMID
- 32856360
- Organisation Unit
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; Sustainability Research Centre; School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - Legacy; School of Social Sciences - Legacy; School of Health - Psychology; Sexual Violence Research and Prevention Unit
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99514508402621
- Output Type
- Journal article
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