The dark side of Facebook: Divergent paths to discontinuance through procrastination and perceived risk

Bravo E.R. · Issues in Information Systems (2026) · DOI: 10.48009/4_iis_2026_145

Resumen

Social media platforms face a growing trend of user discontinuance. The literature has predominantly explained this phenomenon through the Stressor-Stress-Outcome paradigm, focusing the analysis on emotional exhaustion as the causal mechanism. However, evidence suggests that problematic platform use may also drive discontinuance. The present study examines the role of procrastination and perceived risk as antecedents of dissatisfaction and discontinuance intention on Facebook, using Expectation-Confirmation Theory as an organizing framework. Data were collected from 369 adult Facebook users in the United States through a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. The results reveal a divergent mediation pattern: perceived risk increases dissatisfaction and activates a direct discontinuance response, while procrastination, paradoxically, reduces dissatisfaction by satisfying the user's need for escapism, yet simultaneously activates an independent self-regulatory response that drives discontinuance intention. This inconsistent mediation pattern constitutes a novel theoretical contribution that connects the discontinuance literature with that on self-regulation of technology behavior, and suggests that platform providers should address both dimensions through differentiated strategies.

Instituciones: Universidad del Pacífico