Understanding the Predictors of Negative Personal Relationship Experiences on Facebook
Dr. Christopher Manner, Sean Blakley, Samuel Lawrence, Edmond O’Neill, Chase Raines

Abstract
Although online social networking sites are designed to facilitate social interaction and connection, there is evidence that exposing one’s social activities in a public domain may have negative implications for personal relationships. The purpose of this study is to explore the predictors of negative relationship experiences on Facebook. Three hundred and seventeen current Facebook users completed a survey that assessed demographic and psychosocial factors and explored respondents’ Facebook use. The Disinhibition-scale of Zuckerman’s (1971) Sensation Seeking Scale was used to measure cognitive disinhibition. A hierarchical regression model revealed that disinhibition significantly predicts negative relationship experiences on Facebook. Our study provides evidence that disinhibited individuals may practice risky online activities, resulting in information disclosure that damages personal relationships.

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