A multidimensional model for the exploration of negative effects of social networking websites as perceived by students

Abstract

The rapid expansion of social networking websites is raising several issues regarding the influence on the individual and social behavior of users. It is without doubt, that social networking websites are a phenomenon of a contemporary society, which has to be explored in various aspects. It is only because SNW are becoming more and more important for the whole society, especially for the youth, after all, they undoubtedly change the world. Their penetration is observed in various society life spheres. Education is not an exception. It can be stated, that SNW change educational processes. However, the main question is: how change? Can they harm, or maybe on the contrary - help in terms of education. Having carried out empiric research, a hierarchical and multidimensional measurement model was developed to explore the negative effects of these websites. The model has been tested on one sample and cross validated on another sample. It has been stated, that SNW negative effects is a multidimensional construct, having several facets that describe distinct aspects.