An investigation into the influence of impulsivity, anxiety, self-esteem and gender on self-reported problematic text messaging habits amongst undergraduates

Cockrell, Suzanna (2010) An investigation into the influence of impulsivity, anxiety, self-esteem and gender on self-reported problematic text messaging habits amongst undergraduates. University of Worcester.

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Abstract

Text messaging, a service offered via mobile phone technology, has been enthusiastically adopted, particularly amongst adolescents worldwide. The potential impact for the development of self-identity is discussed (Tajfel, 1981), in addition to implications for the development of addictive type behaviours towards technology (Griffiths, 2005). The literature reveals the complexity of the debate. This study employs a measure of self-reported problematic text messaging habits (Rutland, Sheets & Young, 2007) with the aim of investigating links between personality traits, impulsivity, anxiety, self esteem and gender. The results do not replicate earlier research in terms of the predictive validity of certain traits for problematic use of text messages, however evidence is found to support the existence of problematic use within the sample, and suggestions are made for the direction of future research in the light of these findings.