The Big 5 and relationship maintenance on Facebook

The current study examined associations between the Big 5, relationship maintenance activities on Facebook (public displays and partner surveillance), and Facebook-related relationship difficulties (conflict and jealousy). Two hundred fifty-seven individuals currently involved in romantic relationships completed an online survey assessing Facebook activity and the Big 5. Greater extraversion and conscientiousness were associated with higher frequency of displays of dyadic photographs and posts on one’s own or one’s partner’s Facebook page. High extraversion, low openness, and low conscientiousness were associated with engaging in excessive public displays on Facebook. High extraversion and neuroticism were associated with greater partner surveillance and Facebook-related conflict. Neuroticism was also associated with more Facebook-induced jealousy. Surveillance mediated the associations between these two traits and these negative outcomes. Openness and conscientiousness were associated with experiencing fewer negative outcomes of Facebook use