Psychometric Properties of the Persian Internet Addiction Test-Social Networking Sites Version (IAT-SNS): Dimensionality Assessment of SNS addiction

Background: By evaluating the psychometric properties of the Persian Internet Addiction Test-Social Networking Sites version (IAT-SNS) in a sample of Iranian university students, this study investigated the dimensionality of social networking sites addiction for the first time. Method: A total of 620 social networking sites users (414 females) participated in the study. The study questionnaire comprised demographic information, SNS usage patterns, Internet Addiction Test-Social Networking Sites version, and Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS).Result: Exploratory factor analysis identified a three-factor structure of the IAT-SNS; namely ‘Lack of Control’, ‘Emotional and Relational Conflict’, and ‘Preference for online relationship’ that explained 54% of the total variance. Confirmatory factor analysis verified the current model. Problematic users on the whole IAT-SNS and each of the three factors, on average, exhibited higher scores as compared to non-problematic users. The IAT-SNS and its factors showed good internal consistency, strong convergent and concurrent validity. Conclusion: The Persian IAT–SNS is valid and reliable, and is applicable for measuring three dimensions of social networking site addiction among students.