The Relationship Between Envy and Problematic Social Media Use: Evidence From Longitudinal Study and Daily Diary Investigation

Abstract

Social media is widely used worldwide, and previous research has established a link between envy and social media use. However, the dynamic association between envy and problematic social media use has rarely been explored. Based on Social Comparison Theory and Innovation Adoption Framework, the study examined the relationship between envy and problematic social media use. Study 1 adopted a longitudinal design at the trait level and Study 2 utilised a 14-day daily diary at the state level to examine the associations between these variables. In Study 1, problematic social media use at T1 could predict envy at T2, while envy at T1 did not predict problematic social media use at T2. In Study 2, problematic social media use in the previous day could predict envy in the following day; the reverse is not the case. These findings enhance our comprehension of the underlying connections between envy and problematic social media use.