University of Twente Student Theses
The Relationship Between Mindfulness and Problematic Internet Use: The Mediating Role of Fear of Negative Evaluation
Andres, Benedikt (2023) The Relationship Between Mindfulness and Problematic Internet Use: The Mediating Role of Fear of Negative Evaluation.
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Abstract: | Internet use is increasing and accordingly concern about its influence on mental health and well-being. Research has linked adverse psychological outcomes to the excessive use of the internet, thus emphasizing the study of problematic internet use and its underlying mechanism. This study examined the potential mediating role of Fear of Negative Evaluation (FNE) in the relationship between mindfulness and Problematic Internet Use (PIU). A growing body of literature suggests a negative association between mindfulness and PIU, however, the underlying mechanism of this relationship is underexplored. Thus, this study aimed to address this gap by exploring the role of FNE as a possible mediator. The hypothesis proposed was that mindfulness is negatively associated with PIU and FNE, and FNE is positively associated with PIU. Moreover, it was hypothesized that FNE acts as a mediator between mindfulness and PIU. A cross-sectional design was used and the sample compromised 139 university students (M = 23.13, SD = 3.33). Validated scales were used to measure mindfulness, FNE and PIU. Findings revealed a negative association between mindfulness and PIU (r = -.29, p < .001), mindfulness and FNE (r = -.44, p < .001), and a positive association between FNE and PIU (r = .41, p < .001), consistent with previous literature. Importantly, mediation analysis showed that FNE fully mediates the relationship between mindfulness and PIU, providing new insight into the mechanism underlying the relationship between mindfulness and PIU. Further empirical evidence is needed to establish the mediation role of FNE. Limitations and future recommendations are discussed. |
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/95707 |
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