Can implicit associations and approach-avoidance tendencies be observed in both problematic social network use and...

Problematic social network use (PSNU) has gained increasing attention as a potential disorder due to addictive behavior. However, evidence regarding underlying cognitive mechanisms remains inconsistent. Implicit cognitive processes, such as implicit associations and approach-avoidance tendencies, have been proposed as relevant factors in substance use disorders and behavioral addictions, but their role in PSNU is still unclear. Given similarities in usage behavior between PSNU and tobacco use disorder (TUD), a direct comparison may help to identify converging and diverging mechanisms.

In a laboratory study, a sample of N = 178 participants was classified into four groups using a structured diagnostic interview: individuals with PSNU (n = 53), risky use (n = 61), non-problematic use (n = 48), and TUD (n = 16). Implicit cognitions were assessed using the Implicit Association Test (IAT) and the Approach-Avoidance Task (AAT) with behavior-specific stimuli. Group differences were analyzed using ANOVA and ANCOVA, the latter statistical approach controlling for age and psychopathological symptoms.

Significant group differences emerged for the IAT, in individuals with PSNU and risky use showing more positive implicit associations towards behavior-related stimuli than the TUD group but did not remain stable when controlling for age and comorbid psychopathological symptoms. No significant group differences were found for approach-avoidance tendencies across all groups.

Our results suggest that implicit cognitions may play a more complex role in PSNU than previously assumed. Implicit associations may already occur in early stages of addictive behaviors and approach-avoidance tendencies may depend on contextual and intraindividual factors. Future research should further address these factors, also by using advanced ecologically valid methods.