Geosocial Networking Application Use in Men Who Have Sex with Men: The Role of Adult Attachment

Individual differences in attachment differentially predict dating motivations and behaviors among heterosexual individuals. Remarkably, little research has examined such topics in men who have sex with men (MSM). In a sample of 118 MSM, we examined whether individual differences in attachment were differentially associated with motivations for using Grindr, a widely used geosocial networking application (GSNA) among MSM, and whether these motivations, in turn, predicted problematic Grindr use and depression. Data were collected in 2019. Attachment anxiety was associated with use of Grindr for self-esteem enhancement; this motivation, in turn, predicted more problematic Grindr use and higher depression. Attachment anxiety was also associated with problematic Grindr use via use of Grindr for companionship purposes. Those higher in attachment avoidance reported using Grindr for escapism and due to the ease of communication it affords; these motivations, in turn, were associated with greater problematic Grindr use. There were also indirect effects of attachment avoidance on symptoms of depression via escapism. Results suggest that attachment insecurity is associated with maladaptive motivations for GSNA use, and these motivations may place MSM at greater risk for depression and problematic GSNA use. Implications for social policy and professional practice are discussed, including the importance of clinicians assessing for problematic patterns of GSNA use and the need for practitioner training to include a focus on the unique predictors of mental health and well-being among gender and sexual minorities.