The Relationship between Problematic Facebook Use and Early Maladaptive Schemas

Facebook is an increasingly popular online social media platform for communication, entertainment, and information exchange. Previous studies have shown the relationship between problematic Facebook use (PFU) and mental health problems. Additionally, previous studies have reported associations between maladaptive cognitive schemas and mental health problems. However, little is known about their impact on problematic behavior associated with Facebook use. Consequently, the present study investigated the relationship between PFU and early maladaptive schemas (EMSs) among Facebook users. The study comprised 619 Facebook users (568 females; age range from 18 to 30 years; M = 21.34, SD = 2.41 years). The severity of PFU was assessed using the Facebook Intrusion Scale, and EMS dimensions were assessed using the 90-item Young Schema Questionnaire (YSQ-S3). The findings showed a positive relationship between PFU and EMSs, such as insufficient self-control/self-discipline and approval seeking. PFU was negatively associated with EMSs, such as social isolation/alienation and self-sacrifice schemas. Additionally, the findings showed that EMSs, as well as Facebook use characteristics, such as the time spent using Facebook per week, using Facebook apps, and number of friends on Facebook contributed to explaining the variance in PFU scores. These findings may contribute to a better understanding of mechanisms related to the development of PFU, which are associated with cognitive schemas. Additionally, the results may be useful in developing more effective methods of prevention and treatment of this problematic behavior.