Let me take a selfie: Exploring the psychological effects of posting and viewing selfies and groupies on social media

Authors

Ruoxu Wang, Pennsylvania State University
Fan Yang, Pennsylvania State UniversityFollow
Michel M. Haigh, Pennsylvania State University

Abstract

Taking selfies and groupies and sharing them to social media has become a popular online activity. This study aimed to examine the psychological effects of posting and viewing selfies and groupies on social media by conducting a survey (N = 275). Results indicated frequent selfie viewing behavior led to decreased self-esteem whereas frequent groupie viewing behavior led to increased self-esteem. Frequent selfie viewing behavior led to decreased life satisfaction while frequent groupie viewing behavior resulted in increased life satisfaction. However, neither selfie nor groupie posting behavior was associated with self-esteem or life satisfaction. In addition, individuals high in need for popularity were more likely to be affected by selfie viewing behavior in terms of life satisfaction and self-esteem compared with individuals low in need for popularity.

Publication Title

Telematics and Informatics

Recommended Citation

Wang, R., Yang, F., & Haigh, M. (2017). Let me take a selfie: Exploring the psychological effects of posting and viewing selfies and groupies on social media. Telematics and Informatics, 34 (4), 274-283. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tele.2016.07.004