Problematic Use of Video Games, Social Media, and Alcohol: Exploring Reciprocal Relations with the Big Five Personality Traits in a Longitudinal Design

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The problematic use of video games (PG), social media (PSMU), and alcohol (PAU) is widespread from adolescence onwards. According to theoretical models, personality traits are relevant for these problematic behavioral patterns; however, only very few longitudinal studies are available. The aim of this longitudinal study was to investigate for the first time whether Big Five personality dimensions (BFPD) are predictors for the development of PG, PSMU, or PAU, or conversely, whether these behavioral patterns are predictive of the BFPD. Methods: Surveys were conducted over three measurement time points (t1 to t3) using standardized instruments on PG, PSMU, PAU, and BFPD. A total of 492 young people (average age: 16.83 years, 44.1% female and 55.9% male) were investigated at t1, 475 persons (mean age: 17.93 years, 44.8% female, 55.2% male) at t2, and 443 cases (average age: 20.11 years, 45.1% female, 54.9% male) at t3. We calculated cross-lagged panel analyses over three measurement points (structural equation modeling). Results: Of the BFPD, lower Conscientiousness and lower Extraversion were predictors of PG, higher Negative Emotionality (Neuroticism) predicted PSMU, and lower Agreeableness was a predictor of PAU. Only PAU was a predictor of a Big Five dimension (lower Agreeableness). Conclusions: The findings were not consistent across the measurement points (t1 to t2 vs. t2 to t3) with one exception in an explorative analysis: problematic gaming was a predictor for both problematic social media use and problematic alcohol use in youth (t1 to t2 and t2 to t3). The influence of lower Conscientiousness was confirmed for PG and initial longitudinal results for PSMU and PAU were observed. These novel findings could be considered when developing or revising preventive measures.