From Curiosity to Disengagement: A Grounded Theory of BeReal User Dropout Among Asian Young Adults
Keywords:
Asian young adults, BeReal, Digital well-being, Grounded theory, Social media fatigue, Social media disengagementAbstract
The rapid growth of authenticity-oriented social media platforms has transformed digital communication among young adults, yet little is known about why users discontinue these platforms after initial adoption. This study explores the process of BeReal user disengagement among Asian young adults using a constructivist grounded theory approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with active and former BeReal users, and the data were analysed through open, axial, and selective coding using the constant comparative method. The findings reveal a sequential process comprising curiosity, novelty seeking, authentic participation, expectation mismatch, social media fatigue, passive engagement, disengagement, and digital reorientation. Based on these stages, the study proposes the Curiosity–Fatigue–Disengagement Theory (CFDT), which explains how users gradually transition from initial enthusiasm to platform discontinuance. The findings extend existing theories of social media engagement, authenticity, and technology discontinuance by conceptualising disengagement as a dynamic behavioural process. The study also offers practical implications for designing authenticity-oriented platforms that promote sustained user engagement and digital well-being.
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