Validity and Reliability Studies of the Üsküdar Jealousy Scale and the Effect of Social Media on Jealousy

Existing jealousy scales often conceptualize jealousy as an undesirable or maladaptive emotion. However, jealousy is a biologically rooted emotion inherent in humans and observable in certain animal species as well. The key lies not in the elimination of this emotion, but in its appropriate regulation. In contemporary society, where exposure to social media is pervasive, the experience and expression of jealousy can become more destructive. This study was designed in response to the growing need to understand and assess jealousy. The aim of the present research was to develop a multidimensional current jealousy scale and to present preliminary findings regarding the influence of social media. Employing a quantitative research design, data were collected online from a sample of 1053 adult volunteers (aged 18 and above) in Türkiye. The resulting instrument, named the Üsküdar Jealousy Scale, comprises 25 items and 4 dimensions: Relationship-Damaging Jealousy, Destructive Jealousy, Hostile Jealousy, and Controlled Jealousy. The total scale demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.93), with subscale reliabilities ranging from 0.75 to 0.89. The scale accounted for 57.20% of the total variance. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the model fit indices fell within acceptable limits, supporting the structural validity of the scale. Additionally, criterion validity was supported by moderate correlations (r > 0.30 and <0.70) with the Scale of Social Media Jealousy in Romantic Relationships (SSMJRR). Initial findings revealed generally low levels of jealousy among participants. The dimension concerning relationship-damaging jealousy showed moderate levels, while destructive and controlled jealousy dimensions indicated lower levels. Notably, patterns of social media usage significantly influenced jealousy scores. Individuals exhibiting continuous engagement in social media platforms reported higher levels of jealousy. In conclusion, the Üsküdar Jealousy Scale was found to be a psychometrically sound instrument, suitable for both research and self-assessment purposes in the multidimensional evaluation of jealousy. This validated and reliable tool has the potential to distinguish between adaptive and maladaptive expressions of jealousy, offering practical utility for clinicians and individuals seeking deeper self-understanding.