Unpacking the relationship between technological conflicts, dissatisfaction, and social media discontinuance intention: An integrated theoretical perspective

Previous research has largely overlooked the examination of the association between family, work, and personal (FWP) conflict, user dissatisfaction, and subsequent discontinuation intention in the context of social networking sites (SNS). Addressing this research gap, the present study aims to present an integrated theoretical perspective that combines Expectancy Disconfirmation Theory (EDT) and Merton's functions. By doing so, we seek to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing SNS withdrawal behavior. To achieve this objective, data were collected from 360 SNS users using a time-lag method across three waves, and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed for data analysis. The findings of our study reveal that all three disconfirmation-based factors (i.e., FWP conflicts) positively contribute to SNS user dissatisfaction, which subsequently leads to users' intention to discontinue their SNS usage. Additionally, we explored the moderating role of Merton's functions, specifically manifest and latent functions, in influencing users' decisions to discontinue SNS use. The results indicate that the manifest functions of social media weaken the relationship between dissatisfaction and discontinuation intention, whereas the latent functions do not exhibit a significant interaction effect. By proposing a dual theoretically integrated mechanism of SNS discontinuation intention, study contributes to the existing literature in the field of information systems. Furthermore, our findings provide valuable insights for managers regarding the timing and manner in which social media FWP conflicts can lead to user dissatisfaction. This knowledge can assist in the development of effective strategies aimed at retaining users in SNS and enhancing their overall user experience.