University of Twente Student Theses
Does Social Networking Sites Exposure Mediate the Relationship Between Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Orthorexia Nervosa in University Students?
Minina, A. (2022) Does Social Networking Sites Exposure Mediate the Relationship Between Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Orthorexia Nervosa in University Students?
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| Abstract: | The present study investigated the mediational effect of social networking sites (SNS) exposure on the relationship between symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and orthorexia nervosa (ON) in university students. Previous research has demonstrated that the increased SNS exposure has implications for the expression of OCD and ON symptoms. However, ambiguous judgements have been made regarding the association between OCD and ON. Although these mental health concerns have been found to share similar cognitive and behavioural symptoms, it remains unclear whether there is a causal link between them. Therefore, to investigate the relationship between OCD and ON and the role of SNS use in it, a cross-sectional online survey was employed. The survey included the Y-BOCS and DOS instruments and items concerning socio-demographics and SNS exposure. Overall, N = 334 participants were recruited via convenience sampling, with the total sample consisting of N = 242 individuals (Mage = 21.45, SD = 2.55). The data were analysed with the mediation analysis using the PROCESS software with SPSS running as administrator. Results indicated a significant causal relationship between OCD and ON, where the increase in OCD symptoms resulted in a stronger ON tendency. In addition, higher levels of OCD led to a longer time spent on SNS. In contrast, increased SNS exposure predicted a lower level of ON symptoms. In general, it was concluded that OCD and SNS differently affect ON. While OCD predicts higher ON symptoms, SNS exposure has a reverse effect. Further research is required to validate these findings and identify the mechanism through which SNS exposure affects ON. In addition, a more diverse sample with participants of different races, nationalities, and the LGBTQ+ community must be recruited. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Bachelor) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 77 psychology |
| Programme: | Psychology BSc (56604) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/90969 |
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