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Can Watching Online Videos Be Addictive? A Qualitative Exploration of Online Video Watching among Chinese Young Adults

Author

Listed:
  • Zeyang Yang

    (Department of Psychology, School of Education, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China)

  • Mark D. Griffiths

    (International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK)

  • Zhihao Yan

    (Department of Psychology, School of Education, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China)

  • Wenting Xu

    (Department of Psychology, School of Education, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China)

Abstract

Watching online videos (including short-form videos) has become the most popular leisure activity in China. However, a few studies have reported the potential negative effects of online video watching behaviors (including the potential for ‘addiction’) among a minority of individuals. The present study investigated online video watching behaviors, motivational factors for watching online videos, and potentially addictive indicators of watching online videos. Semi-structured interviews were conducted among 20 young Chinese adults. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Eight themes were identified comprising: (i) content is key; (ii) types of online video watching; (iii) platform function hooks; (iv) personal interests; (v) watching becoming habitual; (vi) social interaction needs; (vii) reassurance needs; and (viii) addiction-like symptoms. Specific video content (e.g., mukbang, pornography), platform-driven continuous watching, and short-form videos were perceived by some participants as being potentially addictive. Specific features or content on Chinese online video platforms (e.g., ‘Danmu’ scrolling comments) need further investigation. Future studies should explore users’ addictive-like behaviors in relation to specific types of online video content and their social interaction on these platforms.

Suggested Citation

  • Zeyang Yang & Mark D. Griffiths & Zhihao Yan & Wenting Xu, 2021. "Can Watching Online Videos Be Addictive? A Qualitative Exploration of Online Video Watching among Chinese Young Adults," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(14), pages 1-14, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:14:p:7247-:d:589585
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Daria J. Kuss & Mark D. Griffiths, 2017. "Social Networking Sites and Addiction: Ten Lessons Learned," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 14(3), pages 1-17, March.
    2. Mirko Duradoni & Federico Innocenti & Andrea Guazzini, 2020. "Well-Being and Social Media: A Systematic Review of Bergen Addiction Scales," Future Internet, MDPI, vol. 12(2), pages 1-12, January.
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    Cited by:

    1. Zhimin Chen, 2023. "On Inhuman Conditions and Its Overcoming," International Journal of Social Science Studies, Redfame publishing, vol. 11(2), pages 812-812, March.
    2. Qing Huang & Mingxin Hu & Hongliang Chen, 2021. "Exploring Stress and Problematic Use of Short-Form Video Applications among Middle-Aged Chinese Adults: The Mediating Roles of Duration of Use and Flow Experience," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(1), pages 1-15, December.
    3. Yao Qin & Alessandro Musetti & Bahiyah Omar, 2023. "Flow Experience Is a Key Factor in the Likelihood of Adolescents’ Problematic TikTok Use: The Moderating Role of Active Parental Mediation," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(3), pages 1-21, January.
    4. Xiao, Lin & Li, Xiaofeng & Zhang, Yucheng, 2023. "Exploring the factors influencing consumer engagement behavior regarding short-form video advertising: A big data perspective," Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services, Elsevier, vol. 70(C).

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