Digital Reflections: Narcissism, Stress, Social Media Addiction, and Nomophobia

Abstract

The present study aimed to examine the link between narcissism, stress, and problematic digital behaviors. We used a cross-sectional approach that explored the indirect effects of nomophobia and social media addiction on the link between narcissism and chronic nonspecific arousal (i.e., stress symptoms). Our sample included 559 adults aged 18 to 45 (M = 27.14, SD = 8.43). Results suggested that narcissism was positively related to nomophobia and social media addiction. Also, nomophobia and social media addiction were positively related to stress. Further analyses suggested that nomophobia and social media addiction mediated the association of narcissism with stress symptoms. We discuss our findings considering their implications for adults’ psychological health considering the current digital context.

Keywords:

• Addiction
• personality
• social interaction
• stress and coping
• self-concept

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.

Notes on contributors

Alexandra Maftei

Alexandra Maftei, PhD is an assistant teacher at the Alexandru Ioan Cuza University - Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences. Her area of research interests includes digital stress, digital addictions, special needs, and emotional well-being.

Acnana-Maria Pătrăușanu

Acnana-Maria Pătrăușanu has a BA and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy. Her research interests include digital addictions and youth’s emotional well-being.