Problematic social media use and differential associations with driving styles among drivers in Loja, Ecuador: a structural equation model

Background Problematic social media use (PSMU) has been associated with difficulties in self-regulation, impulsivity, and emotional distress; however, its association with habitual driving patterns has been little studied, particularly in Latin American contexts. The objective of this study was to analyze, through structural equation modeling, the relationship between PSMU and different driving styles among drivers in Loja, Ecuador. Methods A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional, correlational study was conducted with 628 drivers aged 18 to 64 years. PSMU was assessed using the Social Media Addiction Questionnaire (ARS) and driving styles using the Spanish adaptation of the Multidimensional Driving Style Inventory (MDSI). Results The results showed positive associations between the common PSMU factor and the reckless/risky (β = .289), aggressive (β = .407), anxious (β = .454), and distracted/dissociative (β = .471) styles. The associations were smaller in magnitude with the careful style (β = .131) and stress reduction (β = .283). The average magnitude of the paths toward the styles considered maladaptive was significantly greater than that observed for carefulness and stress reduction (Δβ = .199, 95% CI [.136, .286]). Sensitivity analyses showed stability of the pattern after excluding item 13 of the ARS and adjusting for sociodemographic and driving-exposure variables. Conclusions In conclusion, PSMU is differentially associated with driving styles, particularly distraction/dissociation, anxiety, and aggressiveness. These findings are compatible with the existence of shared self-regulatory vulnerabilities, although the cross-sectional design precludes establishing causal relationships.