Social Determinants of Social Zapping: Exploring Predictors of Planned Scheduled Social Events with Others

Abstract

Social zapping, defined as the cancelation of plans or appointments shortly before they are supposed to take place in order to attend plans deemed “better” than the original, has become increasingly prevalent. The present study examined potential behavioral trait predictors of social zapping, such as belongingness, self-esteem, sense of control, and meaningful existence among community residents ranging from 40 to 75 years of age (n = 48). Results indicated that belongingness and self-esteem are significant predictors of social zapping tendencies, with belongingness emerging as the strongest predictor. Additionally, older adults exhibited a significant and more positive association with self-esteem, sense of control, and meaningful existence compared to individuals aged 39 and younger. The population of young adults (aged 18-39) were found to have stronger, more positive relationships with belongingness. Social zapping frequency was nonsignificant for both older adults and younger adults. Furthermore, social desirability significantly predicted both self-esteem and meaningful existence. Overall, the present study builds on what is currently a new phenomenon in research and will provide new information on the relationship between age, social zapping, and behavioral traits.