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Sexuality Research and Social Policy

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12-04-2021

Geosocial Networking Application Use in Men Who Have Sex with Men: The Role of Adult Attachment

Authors: Elektra Jayawardena, Christopher A. Pepping, Anthony Lyons, Adam O. Hill

Published in: Sexuality Research and Social Policy | Issue 1/2022

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Abstract

Introduction

Individual differences in attachment differentially predict dating motivations and behaviors among heterosexual individuals. Remarkably, little research has examined such topics in men who have sex with men (MSM).

Methods

In a sample of 118 MSM, we examined whether individual differences in attachment were differentially associated with motivations for using Grindr, a widely used geosocial networking application (GSNA) among MSM, and whether these motivations, in turn, predicted problematic Grindr use and depression. Data were collected in 2019.

Results

Attachment anxiety was associated with use of Grindr for self-esteem enhancement; this motivation, in turn, predicted more problematic Grindr use and higher depression. Attachment anxiety was also associated with problematic Grindr use via use of Grindr for companionship purposes. Those higher in attachment avoidance reported using Grindr for escapism and due to the ease of communication it affords; these motivations, in turn, were associated with greater problematic Grindr use. There were also indirect effects of attachment avoidance on symptoms of depression via escapism.

Policy Implications

Results suggest that attachment insecurity is associated with maladaptive motivations for GSNA use, and these motivations may place MSM at greater risk for depression and problematic GSNA use. Implications for social policy and professional practice are discussed, including the importance of clinicians assessing for problematic patterns of GSNA use and the need for practitioner training to include a focus on the unique predictors of mental health and well-being among gender and sexual minorities.

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Title: Geosocial Networking Application Use in Men Who Have Sex with Men: The Role of Adult Attachment
Authors: Elektra Jayawardena
Christopher A. Pepping
Anthony Lyons
Adam O. Hill
Publication date: 12-04-2021
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Sexuality Research and Social Policy / Issue 1/2022
Print ISSN: 1868-9884
Electronic ISSN: 1553-6610
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13178-020-00526-x

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Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Policy Implications

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