Psychology Research and Behavior Management (Dec 2023)
Storing, Not Reading: Investigating the Link Between Upward Social Comparison via Social Media and Digital Hoarding Behavior in Chinese Youth
Abstract
Yan Liu,1 Xinli Chi,2,3 Xuemin Xin4 1School of Media and Communication, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, People’s Republic of China; 2School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, People’s Republic of China; 3The Shenzhen Humanities & Social Sciences Key Research Bases of the Center for Mental Health, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, People’s Republic of China; 4School of Communication and Media, Guangzhou Huashang College, Guangzhou, 511300, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Xuemin Xin, School of Communication and Media, Guangzhou Huashang College, Guangzhou, 511300, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 13178879558, Email [email protected]: Digital hoarding has emerged as a pervasive psychological phenomenon and behavioral challenge among contemporary youth. This study focused on exploring the relationship between upward social comparison via social media, fear of missing out (FoMO), mindfulness, digital hoarding behavior, and its underlying mechanisms.Methods: A total of 927 young people participated in this cross-sectional study. Research instruments included the Social Comparison Scale, the Fear of Missing Out Scale, the Mindfulness Measure, and the Digital Hoarding Behavior Questionnaire. The data analysis comprised descriptive statistics and correlation analyses. Advanced analyses were conducted using Model 4 for mediation and Model 8 for moderation from the PROCESS macro.Results: (1) Upward social comparison via social media was a strong predictor of digital hoarding behavior, even after controlling for variables such as gender, age, and education. (2) FoMO mediated the relationship between upward social comparison via social media and digital hoarding. (3) Mindfulness moderated both the direct effect of upward social comparison via social media on digital hoarding and the first segment of the mediating role of FoMO.Discussion: The study further clarified the antecedents and psychological mechanisms that drive digital hoarding behavior. The findings contribute new perspectives for understanding the emerging concept of digital hoarding, while providing empirical evidence and valuable guidance for encouraging young adults to use social media responsibly and reduce impulsive hoarding tendencies.Keywords: social media, digital hoarding, upward social comparison via social media, fear of missing out, mindfulness
