The "Facebook-self": characteristics and psychological predictors of false self-presentation on Facebook.
In this study we present and empirically examine a new phenomenon related to social networking sites, such as Facebook, the "false Facebook-self." Arguably false self-presentation on Facebook is a growing phenomenon, and in extreme cases; i.e., when ones Facebook image substantially deviates from their true image, it may serve as a gateway behavior to more problematic behaviors which may lead to psychological problems and even pathologies. In this study we show that certain users are more vulnerable to such false self-presentation than others. The study involved 258 Facebook users. Applying ANOVA and SEM analyses we show that users with low self-esteem and low trait authenticity are more likely than others to present a Facebook-self which deviates from their true selves. These social-interaction-related traits are influenced by one's upbringing and the anxious and avoidant attachment styles he or she has developed. Several cases (7.5%) with large gaps between the true and false Facebook-self were detected, which implies that future research should consider the adverse consequences and treatments of high levels of false Facebook-self.
College of Management Academic Studies Rishon LeZion, Israel ; The Academic College of Tel Aviv Yafo, Tel Aviv Yafo Israel.
Oren
O
Gil-Or
Department of Behavioral Sciences, Ruppin Academic Center Emek Hefer, Israel.
Yossi
Y
Levi-Belz
Information Systems and Decision Sciences, Mihaylo College of Business and Economics, California State University Fullerton, CA, USA ; Psychology, Brain and Creativity Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA USA.
Ofir
O
Turel
Facebook; attachment theory; authenticity; false self; self-esteem; social networking sites