Fun or frustration: Modelling discontinuance intention of social media users

Abstract

Excessive usage of social network services (SNS) can lead to exhaustion and frustration, which, in turn, can induce SNS discontinuance intention. In this study, the negative factors when using SNS are empirically tested. We constructed a research model that explores the effects of social overload, disclosure, and pattern of SNS use on SNS-induced exhaustion and frustration. We also examined the influence of exhaustion and frustration on SNS discontinuance intention. An empirical study of 170 SNS users from Bangladesh provides support for our hypotheses. Partial least squares algorithm is implemented to test the hypotheses. The result reveals significant influence of frustration on SNS discontinuance intention. The paper contributes by identifying several factors. Both theoretical and practical implications are discussed.