Social Media Addiction, Infidelity-Related Behaviors, and Relationship Satisfaction: Statistical Moderation Requires Careful Interpretation

Abstract

Social networking sites (SNS) and applications are increasingly permeating users’ lives by providing an online communication platform that facilitates the development of new virtual relationships while also complementing offline relationships. Excessive SNS use can potentially develop into SNS addiction, which is linked with infidelity, jealousy, surveillance, conflict, low relationship satisfaction, and breakup. In this study, we sampled 765 participants in a romantic relationship who reportedly used social media. The study explored the relationship between SNS addiction, social media infidelity-related behaviors (SMIRB), and relationship satisfaction. The study further examined whether SMIRB could moderate the relationship between SNS addiction and relationship satisfaction. Results revealed that SNS addiction was inversely linked with relationship satisfaction and positively linked with SMIRB. Also, SMIRB moderated the strength of the relationship between SNS addiction and relationship satisfaction, which gave a statistical impression that SNS addiction and higher levels of SMIRB promote relationship satisfaction. These findings remind researchers to exercise caution when making substantive inferences and when utilizing self-report relationship satisfaction measures.