Archer, Ashleigh A. (2024) Exploring the Role of Online Disinhibition in the Relationship Between Internet Use Types, Loneliness, and Social Support. Honours thesis, University of Southern Queensland. (Unpublished)
Abstract
As prevalence rates of internet use are at an all-time high, questions around the impact of internet use on wellbeing have promoted a vigorous debate. Considering the extensive use of the internet in daily life, understanding the implications on health and wellbeing outcomes is crucial. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the relationship between internet use types, loneliness, and social support. It was proposed that, when the internet is used in a way that facilitates an active online presence (active internet use [AIU]) or enhances connection (social internet use [SIU]), it would reduce levels of loneliness and enhance social support. Conversely, when the internet is used to escape the “real world” (passive internet use [PIU]), it was expected that feelings of loneliness would be greater and social support lower. The second aim of this study was to explore online disinhibition as a potential moderator of the links between internet use and wellbeing outcomes. Using an online survey with a final sample of 574 university students (Mage = 23.7 years, SD = 8.4), the findings partially supported the hypothesis. It was found that SIU was associated with lower levels of loneliness and greater levels of social support, and PIU was associated with greater loneliness and lower social support. Further, online disinhibition significantly moderated the relationship between SIU and social support. By exploring how types of internet use shape wellbeing, this study sheds light on the potential risks and benefits of internet use for educators and therapists.
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Statistics for this ePrint Item |
| Item Type: | Thesis (Non-Research) (Honours) |
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| Item Status: | Live Archive |
| Faculty/School / Institute/Centre: | Current – Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences - School of Psychology and Wellbeing (1 Jan 2022 -) |
| Supervisors: | Riley Scott |
| Qualification: | Bachelor of Science (Honours) |
| Date Deposited: | 26 May 2025 05:05 |
| Last Modified: | 26 May 2025 23:26 |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Internet use; loneliness; online disinhibition; social support |
| URI: | https://sear.unisq.edu.au/id/eprint/52910 |
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