The Influence of Adult Insecure Attachment on SNS Addiction Tendency

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify interpersonal and emotional factors affecting SNS addiction tendency and to explore ways to prevent and alleviate SNS addiction tendency by examining antecedent factors and their structural relationships.Methods: A preliminary and main survey were conducted from August 8–12, 2023. Data were analyzed using SPSS 24.0 and Smart PLS 4.0, applying structural equation modeling to test hypotheses, assess the structural model, and examine mediating effects.Results: First, avoidant attachment positively affected depression, but did not affect Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) or SNS addiction tendency. Second, anxious attachment positively affected depression and FoMO, but did not affect SNS addiction tendency. Third, depressive symptoms positively affected SNS addiction tendency, and higher FoMO levels were associated with higher SNS addiction tendency. Fourth, interpersonal orientation showed a moderating effect only on the relationship between FoMO and SNS addiction tendency.Conclusion: Insecure adult attachment increases SNS addiction tendency through depression and FoMO, suggesting that problematic SNS use is driven by relational insecurity and emotional distress. Interventions should target depression and FoMO while strengthening offline interpersonal skills and support networks.