The mediating role of the extent of using ‎ smartphone-based social networks in the relationship between personality traits and cultural identity

While using social media has their benefits, there are also concerns about the impact of their application, especially the frequent use and dependence on social networks. In the present study, the mediating role of ‎ smartphone-based social networks in relation to personality traits and cultural identity was investigated. The research method was causal-correlational descriptive and the statistical population included all social network users over 18 years of age in Isfahan in 2018 and of these, 250 were selected with available sampling method. The research instruments were questionnaires such as the shortened version of NEO-Personality Inventory – the Revised (NEO-FFI-R) – the questionnaire about Addiction to smartphone-based social networks, and the cultural identity questionnaire. Pearson correlation and structural equation modeling in SPSS software version 23 and LISREL software version 8.80 were used to analyze the research data. Results showed that among the personality traits, the two factors of Neuroticism and Extroversion are able to explain the use of social networks in a meaningful and desirable way. The variable of using social networks could also explain cultural identity. But the three personality traits of Conscientiousness, Agreement, and Openness to experience were removed from the model because they did not reach the desired level. Thus, the variable of using social networks could play a mediating role in the relationship between cultural identity and some personality traits.