Authentic online self-presentation: How to measure it? is it related to personality, mental health and online behavior?

Abstract

In this study, we examined Authentic Online Self-presentation (AOSP): The extent to which individuals present themselves authentically online without distorting their offline personas. First, a psychometric measure was designed for operationalization, followed by an investigation into its association with positive psychological aspects (well-being and life satisfaction), negative aspects (psychological symptoms and problematic internet use), and personality traits (normal, pathological, and positive). Finally, an explanatory model was analyzed, with AOSP acting as a mediator between personality and positive psychological aspects. A sample of 384 participants (46.6% male, 52.6% female, and 0.05% non-binary) with an average age of 28 years (SD = 5.92) was examined, along with an additional sample for confirmatory factor analysis with similar characteristics. Good evidence of validity (e.g. CFI =.917, SMRS =.059) and reliability (a=.79, w=.85) was obtained for an eight-item measure. AOSP was found to be positively related to well-being and life satisfaction, and negatively related to psychological symptoms and problematic internet use. Positive associations were found with all positive traits, and with extraversion, agreeableness, and conscientiousness. Negative associations were found with detachment and disinhibition. Positive traits proved to be the most explanatory for AOSP. AOSP was identified as mediating the relationship between the integrity trait and life satisfaction and well-being. We highlight the crucial role of positive traits in such online behavior and with the positive aspects associated with AOSP.