Assertiveness and Anxiety Effects in Traditional and Online Interactions

Abstract

The present study explored the extent to which self-esteem is a significant predictor of social network use and the level of anxiety and assertiveness participants feel during traditional and online interactions. Using a survey design (N=184), it was found that lower self-esteem was not associated with more intensive social network use, in contrast to the social compensation theory. Self-esteem was a significant negative predictor of social anxiety as well as a positive predictor of assertiveness in traditional and online settings. Higher social anxiety was also associated with lower social assertiveness in both settings. Exploratory results showed that participants who engaged more frequently in online activities also reported significantly higher levels of assertiveness and lower levels of anxiety. These findings suggest that online behaviors reflect different personality characteristics, with self-esteem being an important variable to consider in the exploration of online behaviors and experiences.