The Relationship of Instagram Use and Self-Transcendence: An Analysis of Female Youth

Abstract

Building on Uses and Gratification Theory, the present study theorizes that the relationship of Instagram use is positively related to self-transcendence directly and indirectly via online pro-social behaviors. Moreover, the present study also theorizes that direct and indirect (via online pro-social behaviors) relationship between Instagram use and self-transcendence is contingent on gender such that the relationships are strong for women as compared to men. Based on questionnaire, survey data collected from 417 students from the public sectors universities in Punjab and analyzing data by using structural equation modeling and multi-group analysis, the present study empirically revealed that Instagram use is positively related to self-transcendence directly and indirectly via online pro-social behaviors. Proceeding further, the present also found that direct and indirect (via online pro-social behavior) relationship between Instagram use and self-transcendence was contingent on gender such that the relationships was strong for men as compared to women. The present study signifies the consequential potential of Instagram use in shaping and developing user’ self-transcendence experience via online pro-social behaviors and extended the homological networks of antecedents and outcomes of Instagram use, online pro-social behaviors and self-transcendence. The present study also provides valuable suggestions on practical front that help parents and teachers to understand and encourage the transcendental importance of meaningful Instagram use for the social and psychological development of the students.