SUPPRESSOR EFFECT OF FACEBOOK USAGES ON OBSESSIVE BELIEFS

BACKGROUND: This research aimed to demonstrate a significant suppressor effect between Facebook usages (Facebook intensity and Facebook addiction) on obsessive beliefs (threat, perfectionism, inflated responsibility, control of thoughts). SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Participants were 204 university students who completed self-reported measures of Facebook intensity, Facebook addiction, and obsessive beliefs. To examine the significance of the suppressor effect, the conceptual models were analyzed using GSCA Pro. RESULTS: Results indicated that the suppressor effect was not significant. Facebook intensity, which refers to regular Facebook use, did not significantly predict the facets of obsessive beliefs. Facebook addiction, which represents the maladaptive use of Facebook, significantly predicted these facets. CONCLUSIONS: Results indicated that Facebook intensity did not increase the relationship between Facebook addiction and obsessive beliefs. Facebook addiction increases the saliency of obsessive beliefs, which possibly increases the risk of OCD. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.