Understanding compulsive smartphone use : An empirical test of a flow-based model

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

79 Scopus Citations
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Author(s)

  • Kem Z.K. Zhang
  • Sesia J. Zhao
  • Liang Liang

Related Research Unit(s)

Detail(s)

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)438-454
Journal / PublicationInternational Journal of Information Management
Volume37
Issue number5
Online published23 May 2017
Publication statusPublished - Oct 2017

Abstract

Smartphones have gained significant popularity. With the rising concerns of compulsive smartphone use, understanding how smartphone users develop compulsive behaviors is crucial. In this study, we aim to investigate the role of flow in the formation of compulsive smartphone use. Drawing upon the flow theory, we incorporate the psychological state of flow as a key factor in our research model. We identify its determinants based on the desirability–feasibility perspective and reinforcement sensitivity theory. We empirically test our model by conducting an online survey with 384 valid responses. We expect that our findings can provide noteworthy insights on the formation of compulsive smartphone use. © 2017 Elsevier Ltd.

Research Area(s)

  • Compulsive smartphone use, Convenience, Flow, Personal trait, Reinforcement motives