Time perspective in Internet and Facebook addiction

Time perspective is a predictor of addictive behaviors. As the number of Internet and Facebook users is increasing, it is worth investigating the role of time perspective in maladaptive types of usage. In this study, we examined the potential relationship of time perspective with Internet addiction and Facebook intrusion. The participants were 756 Internet users with Facebook accounts. We used the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory, the Facebook Intrusion Questionnaire, the Facebook Intensity Scale, and the Internet Addiction Test. We analyzed similar associations between time perspective and the two types of addiction. Age and daily time spent online were predictors of Internet addiction, Facebook intensity, and Facebook intrusion. Past Negative and Present Fatalistic orientations were positive predictors for both types of addiction, whereas Future time perspective was a negative predictor. Present Hedonistic orientation was a negative predictor only of Internet addiction. The findings of this study may contribute to the development of health promotion interventions and workshops aimed at preventing maladaptive online behaviors.