Problematic utilization of online social networking site in Chinese college students: prediction of personality and dynamic mediators

Utilization of online social networking sites (SNSs) is often problematic in young people. However, studies seldom seek to understand personal differences and deep-seated reasons in its problematic utilization. This study aims to explore the longstanding and recent psychosocial predictors of problematic utilization of WeChat friend center (PUWF) longitudinally. A total of 433 college students (17–25 years old, male/female ratio: 389/44) were investigated over 2 successive years (T1: first year; T2: second year) using the Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire, Adolescent Self-Rating Life Events Checklist, Social Support Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and the problematic utilization scale of the WeChat friend center which was developed in this study. Correlation, regression, and structural equation analyses were conducted. A problematic utilization scale of the WeChat friend center was developed with Cronbach’s alpha of .836. 21.02% of students reported WeChat PUWF. Males utilized the WeChat friend center less than females, and females were at higher risk of PUWF, which was correlated with worse mental health. In the longitudinal prediction, regression and modeling analyses showed that apprehension of personality predicted PUWF consistently and directly, and this was partially mediated by T1 depression and T2 negative life events. Resultys suggest that females are at higher risk for PUWF. Apprehension personality has a direct and indirect effect on PUWF through recent depression and life events. The findings help to recognize individuals at risk for PUWF as well as to better prevent it, and provide suggestions as to the functional design of SNSs according to different need of users. Core tips: Utilization of SNSs is often problematic in young people. However, personal differences and deep-seated reasons in its problematic utilization has been poorly revealed. Through a longitudinal investigation, this study confirms that females are at higher risk for PUWF. Apprehension personality has a direct and indirect effect on PUWF through recent depression and life events. The findings help to recognize individuals at risk for PUWF and give theoretical evidence to the functional design of SNSs for diferent users. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12144-022-03150-7.