The role of loneliness, need for popularity, and behavioral problems in amount of using virtual networks in adolescents

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of loneliness, need for popularity and behavioral problems in adolescents' use of virtual networks.

The research method was descriptive and correlational. The statistical population of this study consisted of all male and female high school students of Ardebil city in the academic year of 2018-2019, among which 200 were selected through multistage cluster sampling. Data collection tools included virtual network questionnaires, Russell's sense of loneliness, Achenbach's behavioral problems of adolescent reporting, and need for popularity. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation test and multiple regression analysis.

The results showed that loneliness, need for popularity and behavioral problems were significantly correlated with the use of virtual networks in adolescents (P <0.01). The results of regression analysis also showed that the only variable need for popularity have a significant share in predicting students' use of virtual networks (P <0.01). Loneliness, internalizing syndrome, and externalizing syndrome did not play a significant role in use of virtual networks (P <0.01).

According to the results recommended that the role of need for popularity in adolescence in adolescent behaviors should be considered.