Cyberaddiction to TikTok during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to shed light on the determinants of TikTok cyberaddiction during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the resulting attitudinal and intentional reactions of users. Design/methodology/approach: An online survey of 305 young TikTok users was conducted to test the research hypotheses. Data was analyzed through a partial least sqaures approach. Findings: The results highlight the mediating role of cyberaddiction to TikTok in the relationship between psychological disorders (anxiety and loneliness) and attitude toward TikTok. Indeed, it was found that anxiety and loneliness contribute to TikTok cyberaddiction. The latter would have a positive effect on attitude toward TikTok, which decreases in the presence of fear of missing out (FOMO). It was also proven that attitude toward TikTok has a positive impact on attitude toward the brands promoted on this platform, resulting in an increase in purchasing intentions. Research limitations/implications: This study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is therefore interesting to replicate it to see if the research model can be still validated in the absence of an emergency situation. Testing the model on a larger target, including older TikTok users, could also lead to interesting findings. Practical implications: Knowledge of the psychological factors behind cyberaddiction should not be seen as an opportunity to take advantage from addicted shoppers’ vulnerability. Managers should rather limit communication campaigns on TikTok during crisis periods, undertake retargeting actions by sparing vulnerable TikTok users and avoid stimulating anxiety and loneliness which can lead to cyberaddiction and compulsive purchases. Originality/value: This study sheds light on the central role of cyberaddiction to TikTok in the relationship between psychological disorders and users’ reactions, during a pandemic. It focused on the moderating role of FOMO on the relationship between determinants of cyberaddiction and attitude toward TikTok. Escape theory and attachment theory were used and adapted to the context of social media.