Testing the directional relationship between social network site use and materialistic values

Abstract

The prevalence of social networking sites (SNSs) enables individuals to access materialistic-related information more easily, potentially reinforcing identification with materialistic behaviors and thus increasing the likelihood of strengthening materialistic values. Simultaneously, materialists may regard SNSs as an effective avenue that can assist them in obtaining material satisfaction and happiness. Based on this, we conducted a two-wave longitudinal survey over one year on young SNS users to examine the direction of this relationship between SNS use and materialistic values. The results of the cross-lagged panel model indicated that the intensity of SNS use in the prior wave was a stable positive predictor of materialistic values in the subsequent wave. Conversely, materialistic values have a positive but unstable longitudinal predictive effect on the intensity of SNS use, which may be attributable to the interference of covariates. Our study explores the longitudinal relationship between SNS use and materialistic values. It provides valuable insights that may deepen our comprehension of the role played by SNS in shaping materialistic values among the younger generation, which might further assist users in cultivating healthier values and effectively navigating the digital world.