Can Social Networks Improve User Subjective Wellbeing?

Abstract

Based on the tenets of the uses and gratifications theory (UGT) of media, this study investigates the impact of information gratifications on the subjective wellbeing of social network users in a central Asian country. Data from 244 adolescents were collected using a convenience sampling method. The study reveals the effect of information gratifications on subjective wellbeing, though this influence appears to be moderated by user habits in terms of passion and obsession toward social network use. Furthermore, personality traits have a significant moderating influence on the relationship between information gratifications and subjective wellbeing. Using the empirical findings, this study offers recommendations to mitigate the negative effects of social networks on users' subjective wellbeing.

Functionality, Emotion, and Acceptance of Artificial Intelligence Virtual Assistants

“…The anthropomorphic behaviors of the AI virtual assistants when interacting with users (e.g., language-based communication) evoke a sense of sociality (Uddin et al, 2021). It leads the users to treat the AI assistants as they treat others and respond to them socially, promoting a sense of social presence and social interaction.…”

Autonomous Motivation and Self-Disclosure Intention

“…Providers of social networking services (SNSs) have put significant effort into developing measures to facilitate SNS users' online and offline interactions in order to acquire valuable consumer/user information that can enable them to continue to expand their service reach and scope as well as the value of their services to their users (Qi et al, 2021;Sohaib, 2021;Uddin et al, 2021). The acquisition and management of SNS users' location-related information is essential for achieving the objective above.…”