Assessing the Predictors of Intention and Behavior in Using Virtual Social Networks Among Students of the Yazd University of Medical Sciences Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior

There has been a recent spike in the use of virtual social networks.
However, only a few studies have explored factors that influence the use of social
networks by using theories of health education among students. The present
study aims to determine the predictive factors of virtual social networks among
students of the Yazd University of Medical Sciences based on the constructs of
the theory of planned behavior.
Methods: In 2016 this cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 students who
were selected by the stratified random sampling method. Data was collected from a
questionnaire based on the constructs of the theory of planned behavior including
attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and behavioral intentions
and behaviors. The data collected was then analyzed via the SPSS V.16 software
using descriptive statistics, Pearson product– moment correlation test, one-way
analysis of variance, and regression.
Results: The mean age of the students was 22.28 ± 3.69 years. The results also
suggested that 98.3% of them were using virtual social networks. Moreover, the
findings of the regression analysis indicated that attitudes, subjective norms, and
perceived behavioral control were predictors of intention to use social networks,
while attitudes had the highest predictive power for the intention to use social
networks (β = 0.38). Furthermore, the results of the regression analysis demonstrated
that behavioral intention, attitudes, and subjective norms among the constructs of the
theory of planned behavior could predict the behavior to use virtual space.
Conclusion: The use of virtual social networks by university students displayed a
rising trend. Measures ought to be taken to create a right attitude about the extent
and efficient use of virtual networks to ensure that they do not interfere with the
students’ educational activities and real relationships.