Instagram Use as a Multimedia Platform for Sharing Images and Videos: Links to Smartphone Addiction and Self-Esteem

Abstract

This study aims to analyze and determine the factors that have an impact on the intensive use of Instagram and its relationship with smartphone addiction and self-esteem. A total of 389 Instagram users aged between 18 and 57 (M 1⁄4 23.98; SD 1⁄4 5.37) completed an online survey based on three standardized scales. The findings of the study suggest that there are statistically significant differences in the intensive use of Instagram and smartphone addiction, according to the individual’s employment status and the level of studies completed. Furthermore, the multiple linear regression analysis established age and time spent on the social network as predictors of the intensive use of Instagram and smartphone addiction. Finally, the structural equation model showed a positive correlation between making an intensive use of Instagram and smartphone addiction, and a negative correlation between smartphone addiction and self-esteem.