Development and validation of a scale to measure internet self-expansion

Self-expansion is a common phenomenon in social life, and it may provide a new and integrated perspective to examine Internet use and its influences. In current information era, Internet has become an indispensable component of our daily lives, but there have been limited attempts to measure its influence from a self-expansion perspective. This study aims to develop and validate a scale measuring Internet self-expansion. Firstly, a semi-structured interview was conducted to generate the initial items. Exploratory factor analysis was then conducted on the initial 23 items using a sample of 565 participants. The results identified three dimensions: the acquisition of new experiences and perspectives; a sense of personal growth and new identities; and raising competence and resources. The three-factor model with 16-item, was then subjected to confirmatory factor analysis using a second sample of 686 participants. The results showed a good model fit. Finally, criterion validity and reliability were examined using a third sample of 351 participants. The results revealed that the score of Internet self-expansion was significantly correlated with that of Inclusion of Other in Self scale and Internet Use Intensity measure, indicating a good criteria validity. The scale of Internet self-expansion also demonstrated good internal consistency and test–retest reliability. Taken together, the findings suggest that the proposed scale is a reliable and valid measure which can be used to assess Internet self-expansion.