Psychometric Properties of the Persian Internet Addiction Test-Social Networking Sites Version: Dimensionality Assessment of Social Networking Site Addiction

Background: By evaluating the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the Internet Addiction Test-Social Networking Sites version (IAT-SNS) in a sample of Iranian university students, this study investigated the dimensionality of SNS addiction for the first time. Methods: A total of ۶۲۰ SNS users (۴۱۴ women) participated in the study. The study questionnaire comprised demographic information, SNS usage patterns, the IAT-SNS, and the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS). Findings: Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) identified the ۳-factor structure of the IAT-SNS, namely ‘Lack of Control’, ‘Emotional and Relational Conflict’, and ‘Preference for online relationships’ that explained ۵۴% of the total variance. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) verified the current model. Problematic users on average exhibited higher scores on the whole IAT-SNS and each of the ۳ factors as compared to non-problematic users. The IAT-SNS and its factors showed good internal consistency, and strong convergent and concurrent validity. Conclusion: The Persian version of the IAT–SNS is valid and reliable, and is applicable for measuring the ۳ dimensions of SNS addiction among students.

Keywords:

Social networking , Addictive behavior , Internet addiction disorder , Psychometrics , Students