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Askheim C, Engebretsen E, Haldar M. Living happily alone in Plato's cave? On loneliness, technology and the metaphysics of presence. MEDICAL HUMANITIES 2024:medhum-2024-012965. [PMID: 39084899 DOI: 10.1136/medhum-2024-012965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
In a lot of research on loneliness and technology, there is an underlying premise that actual, physical presence is more real than 'virtual' presence. This premise is rarely explicit, yet it implies a hierarchy of reality, where the 'here and now' is always on top. In this theoretical paper, we examine this latent hierarchy and the understandings of presence and mediation it implies. We point towards potential consequences of this understanding for research on the role of technology in reducing loneliness and social isolation. To do this, we draw on the philosophical analysis made by Martin Heidegger and Jacques Derrida of what they called 'the metaphysics of presence'. This is the tendency to privilege presence as the only immediate and truthful access to reality, whereas all forms of mediations constitute mere approximations, derivations and second-rate realities with dubious truth value. First, we present their diagnosis, and then we show how it pertains to research on virtual presence and loneliness by analysing some examples from this research. Finally, we discuss some potential implications of the metaphysics of presence through a case story compiled from our empirical research. Our foundational assertion is that the question of whether anyone experiences loneliness is an empirical and not a metaphysical question. If we want to properly understand loneliness and the potential for alleviating it through the use of teletechnologies, we might get off on the wrong foot if we carry with us assumptions suggesting the existence of ascending levels of reality and presence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clemet Askheim
- Department of Social Work, Child Welfare and Social Policy, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Eivind Engebretsen
- Sustainable Health Unit, University of Oslo Faculty of Medicine, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marit Haldar
- Department of Social Work, Child Welfare and Social Policy, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
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2
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Dave S, Kim SC, Beaver S, Hasimoglu YG, Katz I, Luedke H, Yandulskaya AS, Sharma N. Peer support in adolescents and young adults with chronic or rare conditions in northern America and Europe: Targeted literature review. J Pediatr Nurs 2024:S0882-5963(24)00221-5. [PMID: 38964964 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2024.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
PROBLEM Adolescents and young adults with chronic or rare conditions face unique risks to their physical, social and emotional development. Research suggests that peer support improves their quality of life and reduces social isolation. However, there is a paucity of current information considering multiple intervention formats. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA A targeted literature review was conducted to identify peer support interventions and assess their feasibility, acceptability and efficacy for this population. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, Embase and American Psychological Association PsycINFO for records reporting peer support interventions in young adults with chronic or rare conditions. Data were extracted from relevant publications and qualitatively evaluated. SAMPLE Thirty studies were included, which assessed the use of peer support for young adults (aged 13-30 years) with chronic or rare conditions in Europe or North America. RESULTS Peer support interventions had positive effects on social positivity, psychosocial development and medical outcomes, though significance was not always demonstrated. CONCLUSIONS Peer support can enhance care for young adults with chronic or rare conditions. Current literature suggests that once-weekly virtual interventions are the most feasible and acceptable for patients, leading to multifaceted improvements in their well-being. IMPLICATIONS This study is one of the first to discuss in-person, virtual and hybrid peer-based interventions for young adults with chronic and rare conditions. While all formats improved social, psychological and medical outcomes, virtual formats may be most accessible to participants. Interventions should be made available to this population, and guidelines for optimal implementation of peer support are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandra C Kim
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital, 8950 Euclid Ave R3, Cleveland, OH 44195, United States
| | - Steph Beaver
- Costello Medical (UK), 55 Old Broad Street, London EC2M 1RX, United Kingdom
| | - Yasemin G Hasimoglu
- Costello Medical (US), 175 Federal St Floor 16, Boston, MA 02110, United States
| | - Isabel Katz
- Costello Medical (US), 175 Federal St Floor 16, Boston, MA 02110, United States
| | - Hannah Luedke
- Costello Medical (UK), 55 Old Broad Street, London EC2M 1RX, United Kingdom
| | | | - Niraj Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115, United States; Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, United States; Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA 02115, United States
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Calderon Leon MD, Guassi Moreira JF, Saragosa-Harris NM, Waizman YH, Sedykin A, Peris TS, Silvers JA. Parent and Friend Relationship Quality and Links to Trajectories of Loneliness During the First Year of College. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024; 55:680-694. [PMID: 36152130 PMCID: PMC9510327 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01416-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Beginning college involves changes that can increase one's vulnerability to loneliness and associated negative outcomes. Parent and friend relationships are potential protective factors against loneliness given their positive association with adjustment. The present longitudinal study, with data collection at baseline, 1 month, and 2 months later, assessed the comparative effects of self-reported parent and friend relationship quality on loneliness in first-year college students (N = 101; 80 female, Mage = 18.36). At baseline, parent and friend relationship quality were negatively associated with loneliness. Longitudinal data revealed that friend relationship quality interacted with time, such that its effects on loneliness attenuated over the course of 2 months. By contrast, parent relationship quality continued to predict lower loneliness 2 months post-baseline. These results highlight the importance of close relationships and suggest that targeting relationship quality could be effective in helping youth transition to college.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria D Calderon Leon
- University of California, A191 Franz Hall, 502 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1563, USA
| | - João F Guassi Moreira
- University of California, A191 Franz Hall, 502 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1563, USA.
| | | | - Yael H Waizman
- University of California, A191 Franz Hall, 502 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1563, USA
| | - Anna Sedykin
- University of California, A191 Franz Hall, 502 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1563, USA
| | - Tara S Peris
- University of California, A191 Franz Hall, 502 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1563, USA
| | - Jennifer A Silvers
- University of California, A191 Franz Hall, 502 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1563, USA.
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Joo S, Lee Y, Kim HK. Characterizing different patterns of digital competence and their associations with loneliness and social isolation among older adults: findings from South Korea. Aging Ment Health 2024; 28:858-865. [PMID: 37938112 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2277872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES With the advent of worldwide internet networks in the digital age, digital competence can play an important role in decreasing loneliness and social isolation in older adults. This study characterized different patterns of digital competence among older adults and examined their associations with loneliness and social isolation. METHOD The sample included 315 older Korean adults (M = 68.79, range = 65-84) who completed an online survey. RESULTS Latent profile analysis identified four different profiles of digital competence, including 1) low activity (28%) who did not choose digital participation despite advanced technical skills, 2) unskilled (13%) who had limited technical skills, 3) passive participation (25%) who was motivated for digital interactions even with insufficient technical skills, and 4) active participation (34%) who were involved in digital activities with the necessary skills. Additionally, the unskilled profile had relatively higher levels of loneliness than did the active participation profile. The passive participation and low activity profiles showed the highest level of social isolation, followed by the unskilled, and active participation profiles. CONCLUSION The present findings suggest that understanding different profiles of digital competence and facilitating active digital participation related to specific profiles can be an effective strategy to reduce older adults' social isolation and loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Joo
- BK21 Symbiotic Society and Design, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yeseul Lee
- Department of Child and Family Studies/Human Life and Innovation Design, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyoun K Kim
- Department of Child and Family Studies/Human Life and Innovation Design, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
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5
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Schwartz L, Levy J, Hayut O, Netzer O, Endevelt-Shapira Y, Feldman R. Generation WhatsApp: inter-brain synchrony during face-to-face and texting communication. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2672. [PMID: 38302582 PMCID: PMC10834538 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52587-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Texting has become one of the most prevalent ways to interact socially, particularly among youth; however, the effects of text messaging on social brain functioning are unknown. Guided by the biobehavioral synchrony frame, this pre-registered study utilized hyperscanning EEG to evaluate interbrain synchrony during face-to-face versus texting interactions. Participants included 65 mother-adolescent dyads observed during face-to-face conversation compared to texting from different rooms. Results indicate that both face-to-face and texting communication elicit significant neural synchrony compared to surrogate data, demonstrating for the first time brain-to-brain synchrony during texting. Direct comparison between the two interactions highlighted 8 fronto-temporal interbrain links that were significantly stronger in the face-to-face interaction compared to texting. Our findings suggest that partners co-create a fronto-temporal network of inter-brain connections during live social exchanges. The degree of improvement in the partners' right-frontal-right-frontal connectivity from texting to the live social interaction correlated with greater behavioral synchrony, suggesting that this well-researched neural connection may be specific to face-to-face communication. Our findings suggest that while technology-based communication allows humans to synchronize from afar, face-to-face interactions remain the superior mode of communication for interpersonal connection. We conclude by discussing the potential benefits and drawbacks of the pervasive use of texting, particularly among youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linoy Schwartz
- Center for Developmental, Social, and Relationship Neuroscience, Reichman University, Herzliya, Israel
| | - Jonathan Levy
- Center for Developmental, Social, and Relationship Neuroscience, Reichman University, Herzliya, Israel
- Department of Criminology and Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Olga Hayut
- Center for Developmental, Social, and Relationship Neuroscience, Reichman University, Herzliya, Israel
| | - Ofir Netzer
- Center for Developmental, Social, and Relationship Neuroscience, Reichman University, Herzliya, Israel
| | - Yaara Endevelt-Shapira
- Center for Developmental, Social, and Relationship Neuroscience, Reichman University, Herzliya, Israel
| | - Ruth Feldman
- Center for Developmental, Social, and Relationship Neuroscience, Reichman University, Herzliya, Israel.
- Child Study Center, Yale University, New Haven, USA.
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Petrova K, Gross JJ. The Future of Emotion Regulation Research: Broadening Our Field of View. AFFECTIVE SCIENCE 2023; 4:609-616. [PMID: 38156255 PMCID: PMC10751286 DOI: 10.1007/s42761-023-00222-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Over the past few decades, emotion regulation research has matured into a vibrant and rapidly growing field (in 2022 alone, more than 30 thousand papers were published on emotion regulation). Taking stock of our progress, we ask "What does the future hold?" In this manuscript, we offer a roadmap for the next generation of research on emotion regulation. We begin by painting a picture of the field's journey so far. We then outline a forward-looking agenda for broadening our field of view along three key dimensions: (1) increasing our resolution to see how regulatory strategies are flexibly and dynamically translated into tactics; (2) widening our viewing angle to embrace interpersonal emotion regulation; and (3) extending the timescale of emotion regulation research to examine how regulatory efforts are fine-tuned across the regulatory cycle and in the context of a broader range of affective experiences. In doing so, we highlight empirical studies that exemplify these three areas of focus and discuss the opportunities that lie before us. We close by offering a set of concrete practical and methodological recommendations for how the field can accomplish the goals we have outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Petrova
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, 450 Jane Stanford Way, Building 420, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - James J. Gross
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, 450 Jane Stanford Way, Building 420, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
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Nai ZL, Tan WS, Tov W. Acceptance of communication technology, emotional support and subjective well-being for Chinese older adults living alone during COVID-19: A moderated mediation model. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291806. [PMID: 37733727 PMCID: PMC10513265 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Stringent social distancing measures implemented to control the spread of COVID-19 affected older adults living alone by limiting their social interaction beyond their households. During these restrictions, interactions beyond the household could be facilitated by communication technology (CT) such as voice calls, instant messages. Our study provides evidence on how CT acceptance could influence the emotional support and in turn, subjective well-being (SWB) of older adults living alone. We did a cross-sectional survey with 293 community-dwelling Chinese older adults. Participants were surveyed from September to November 2020 and had completed measures on CT acceptance (competency), emotional support, and SWB. PROCESS Model 1 was used to estimate the conditional effects of CT acceptance (competency) on emotional support for those living alone versus with others. Following which, PROCESS Model 7 was used to estimate the conditional indirect effects of CT acceptance (competency) on SWB through emotional support. Our results suggested that living arrangement moderated the indirect effect of CT acceptance (competency) on SWB. For older adults living alone, CT acceptance (competency) was significantly associated with perceived emotional support and, in turn, their SWB. For older adults living with others, CT acceptance was not associated with emotional support and SWB. Our findings call for more research and support to increase older adults' acceptance of CT as an option for communication to increase emotional support for older adults living alone, even during non-pandemic times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze Ling Nai
- Geriatric Education & Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Woan Shin Tan
- Geriatric Education & Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
- Health Services & Outcomes Research Department, National Healthcare Group, Singapore, Singapore
| | - William Tov
- School of Social Sciences, Singapore Management University, Singapore, Singapore
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Pauw LS. Support provision in a digitalized world: The consequences of social sharing across different communication channels. Curr Opin Psychol 2023; 52:101597. [PMID: 37329648 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2023.101597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
People tend to share their emotional experiences with others, with sharing increasingly done online. This raises questions about the quality of computer-mediated vs. face-to-face sharing. The present review (1) outlines conditions for sharing to improve emotional and relational well-being, (2) discusses when computer-mediated sharing with other people may (not) be conducive to these conditions, and (3) reviews recent research on the effectiveness of computer-mediated sharing with humans and virtual agents. It is concluded that the emotional and relational consequences of sharing are dependent on the responsiveness of the listener, regardless of the communication channel. Differences exist, however, in the extent to which channels are conducive to various forms of responding, with implications for speakers' emotional and relational well-being.
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Haggerty BB, Kennedy DP, Bradbury TN, Karney BR. Lasting Declines in Couples' Social Network Interactions in the First Years of COVID. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY BULLETIN 2023:1461672231169591. [PMID: 37158231 PMCID: PMC10695142 DOI: 10.1177/01461672231169591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Since the onset of COVID-19, a rise in loneliness has raised concerns about the social impact of lockdowns and distancing mandates. Yet, to date, the effects of the pandemic on social networks have been studied only indirectly. To evaluate how the pandemic affected social networks, the current analyses analyzed five waves of detailed social network interviews conducted before and during the first 18 months of the pandemic in a sample especially vulnerable to contracting the virus: mostly non-White couples (243 husbands and 250 wives) recruited from lower income neighborhoods. Pre-COVID interviews asked spouses to name 24 individuals with whom they interact regularly. Post-COVID interviews indicated a nearly 50% decline in face-to-face interactions and a nearly 40% decline in virtual interactions, with little recovery over the first 18 months of the pandemic. Compared with less affluent couples, those with higher incomes maintained more of their network relationships, especially when virtual interactions were taken into account.
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Lewis KC, Roche MJ, Brown F, Tillman JG. Attachment, loneliness, and social connection as prospective predictors of suicidal ideation during the COVID-19 pandemic: A relational diathesis-stress experience sampling study. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2023; 53:64-74. [PMID: 36156302 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Concerns about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health have led to efforts to understand how pandemic-specific factors, such as decreased social contact during periods of social distancing, may relate to suicide risk. The present study evaluated personality-based risk factors and frequency of social contact as prospective predictors of suicidal ideation (SI) during the pandemic. METHODS We tested a relational diathesis-stress model of suicide focusing on insecure attachment, trait loneliness, and social contact as predictors of SI, using twice-weekly survey data collected via smartphone from a community sample (n = 184) over 8 weeks. RESULTS Multilevel modeling showed that both trait loneliness and anxious attachment predicted the prospective development of SI during the study period. Reduced in-person contact, but not remote contact, was proximally associated with increased SI. Participants with high attachment avoidance were more likely to develop SI in the context of reduced daily in-person contact compared to participants without these traits. CONCLUSION Findings support a relational diathesis-stress model of suicide risk during the pandemic, showing that dispositional traits related to emotional connection with others predicted the relative salience of reduced social contact as a proximal risk factor for SI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie C Lewis
- Erikson Institute for Education, Research & Advocacy, Austen Riggs Center, Stockbridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Fiona Brown
- Erikson Institute for Education, Research & Advocacy, Austen Riggs Center, Stockbridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jane G Tillman
- Erikson Institute for Education, Research & Advocacy, Austen Riggs Center, Stockbridge, Massachusetts, USA
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Braga LDS, Moreira BDS, Torres JL, Andrade ACDS, Lima ACL, Vaz CT, Machado EL, Caiaffa WT, Ferri CP, Mambrini JVDM. A decreased trajectory of loneliness among Brazilians aged 50 years and older during the COVID-19 pandemic: ELSI-Brazil. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2023; 38:e00106622. [PMID: 36921186 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311xen106622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to estimate prevalence of loneliness among older Brazilian adults over the first seven months of the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify the predictors of loneliness trajectories. Pre-pandemic data derived from face-to-face interviews of participants of the 2019-2020 Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil), which is a nationally representative study of community-dwelling individuals aged 50 years and over. Pandemic data were based on three rounds of telephone interviews among those participants, conducted from May to October 2020. Loneliness was measured by a single-item question, considering those who had at least two repeated measures. Explanatory variables included depression, living alone, leaving home in the last week, and virtual connectedness in the last month. Mixed-effects logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios with their 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) and to investigate loneliness trajectories and their predictors. In total, 5,108 participants were included. The overall prevalence of loneliness in the pre-pandemic period was 33.1% (95%CI: 29.4-36.8), higher than the pandemic period (round 1: 23.6%, 95%CI: 20.6-26.9; round 2: 20.5%, 95%CI: 17.8-23.5; round 3: 20.6%, 95%CI: 17.1-24.6). A significant interaction (p ≤ 0.05) was evidenced only between depression and time; participants with depression showed a greater reduction in loneliness levels. Although loneliness levels in Brazil have decreased during the pandemic, this pattern is not present for all older adults. Individuals with depression had a more significant reduction, probably due to feeling closer to their social network members during the stay-at-home recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bruno de Souza Moreira
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brasil
- Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Brasil
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Zoppolat G, Righetti F, Balzarini RN, Alonso-Ferres M, Urganci B, Rodrigues DL, Debrot A, Wiwattanapantuwong J, Dharma C, Chi P, Karremans JC, Schoebi D, Slatcher RB. Relationship difficulties and "technoference" during the COVID-19 pandemic. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL AND PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS 2022; 39:3204-3227. [PMID: 36349312 PMCID: PMC9630926 DOI: 10.1177/02654075221093611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has touched many aspects of people's lives around the world, including their romantic relationships. While media outlets have reported that the pandemic is difficult for couples, empirical evidence is needed to test these claims and understand why this may be. In two highly powered studies (N = 3271) using repeated measure and longitudinal approaches, we found that people who experienced COVID-19 related challenges (i.e., lockdown, reduced face-to-face interactions, boredom, or worry) also reported greater self and partner phone use (Study 1) and time spent on social media (Study 2), and subsequently experienced more conflict and less satisfaction in their romantic relationship. The findings provide insight into the struggles people faced in their relationships during the pandemic and suggest that the increase in screen time - a rising phenomenon due to the migration of many parts of life online - may be a challenge for couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Zoppolat
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Giulia Zoppolat, Department of Experimental
and Applied Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Van der Boechorstraat 7,
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland 1081 HV, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Anik Debrot
- University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Coady A, Lainchbury K, Godard R, Holtzman S. What twitter can tell us about user experiences of crisis text lines: A qualitative study. Internet Interv 2022; 28:100526. [PMID: 35313611 PMCID: PMC8933810 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2022.100526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mental health problems are the leading cause of disability worldwide. Despite the prevalence and cost of mental illness, there are insufficient health services to meet this demand. Crisis hotlines have a number of advantages for addressing mental health challenges and reducing barriers to support. Mental health crisis services have recently expanded beyond telephone hotlines to include other communication modalities such as chat and text messaging services, largely in response to the increased use of mobile phones and text messaging for social communication. Despite the high uptake of crisis text line services (CTLs) and rising mental health problems worldwide, CTLs remain understudied. The current study aimed to address an urgent need to evaluate user experiences with text-based crisis services. This study explored user experiences of CTLs by accessing users' publicly available Twitter posts that describe personal use and experience with CTLs. Data were qualitatively analyzed using thematic analysis. Six main themes were identified from 776 tweets: (1) approval of CTLs, (2) helpful counselling, (3) invalidating or unhelpful counselling, (4) problems with how the service is delivered, (5) features of the service that facilitate accessibility, and (6) indication that the service suits multiple needs. Overall, results provide evidence for the value of text-based crisis support, as many users reported positive experiences of effective counselling that provided helpful coping skills, de-escalation, and reduction of harm. Results also identified areas for improvement, particularly ensuring more timely service delivery and effective communication of empathy. Text-based services may require targeted training to apply methods that effectively convey empathy in this medium. Moving forward, CTL services will require systematic attention in the clinical research literature to ensure their continued success and popularity among users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alanna Coady
- Corresponding author at: The University of British Columbia
- Okanagan, ASC 283, 3187 University Way, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada.
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Online social connections as surrogates of face-to-face interactions: A longitudinal study under Covid-19 isolation. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2021.107102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Petrova K, Schulz MS. Emotional experiences in technology-mediated and in-person interactions: an experience-sampling study. Cogn Emot 2022; 36:750-757. [PMID: 35200113 DOI: 10.1080/02699931.2022.2043244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
As the ubiquity of technology-mediated communication grows, so does the number of questions about the costs and benefits of replacing in-person interactions with technology-mediated ones. In the present study, we used a daily diary design to examine how people's emotional experiences vary across in-person, video-, phone-, and text-mediated interactions in day-to-day life. We hypothesised that individuals would report less positive affect and more negative affect after less life-like interactions (where in-person is defined as the most life-like and text-mediated as the least life-like). In line with this hypothesis, the analysis of 527 unique interactions reported by 102 individuals (mean age = 19.3; 85.6% female) over the course of 7 days reveals that people feel lonelier, sadder, less affectionate, less supported, and less happy following less life-like interactions. Additional analyses show that the links between life-like communication and momentary experiences are independent of properties of individual interactions such as interaction length and participants' overall evaluations of interaction quality. These findings provide initial evidence that there may be inherent properties of common technology-mediated communication tools that may lead to momentary changes in affective experiences and make social connection more challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Petrova
- Psychology Department, Bryn Mawr College, Bryn Mawr, PA, USA
| | - Marc S Schulz
- Psychology Department, Bryn Mawr College, Bryn Mawr, PA, USA
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16
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Stone LB, Veksler AE. Stop talking about it already! Co-ruminating and social media focused on COVID-19 was associated with heightened state anxiety, depressive symptoms, and perceived changes in health anxiety during Spring 2020. BMC Psychol 2022; 10:22. [PMID: 35130965 PMCID: PMC8819886 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-022-00734-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social distancing presents a significant obstacle for relationships and threatens mental health. Identifying maladaptive, voluntary coping strategies may inform how to maintain interpersonal relationships and mental health during quarantine. Co-ruminating with peers on negative events, moods and fears has adjustment trade-offs of increasing depression and anxiety risk while also enhancing friendship quality. Similarly, social media use is associated with social benefits and risk to mental health. We extend prior research by examining whether co-ruminating on COVID-19, social media use, and social media use focused on COVID-19 during social isolation was associated with heightened depression and anxiety symptoms but also lower loneliness and higher social support during initial lockdown measures in the USA. METHODS Adults were recruited through social media (n = 345) to complete self-report surveys on co-rumination, social media use, social distancing, social support from March-May 2020. During this cross-sectional assessment, in addition to completing surveys on current depressive symptoms and state and health anxiety, participants also provided retrospective report of their perceived health anxiety levels six months prior. RESULTS Co-ruminating on COVID-19 with peers and greater time on social media focused on COVID-19 predicted perceived increases in health anxiety and were also associated with higher depressive symptoms and state anxiety, even after controlling for significant demographic predictors. Further, in the context of social distancing, both interaction strategies failed to confer social benefits. CONCLUSIONS Results have direct implications for maintaining psychosocial health during social distancing restrictions. Adults may modify how they engage with peers by limiting COVID-19 content on social media and COVID-19 discussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey B Stone
- Department of Psychology, Georgia Southern University, PO Box 8041, Statesboro, GA, 30460, USA.
| | - Alice E Veksler
- Department of Communication, Christopher Newport University, Newport News, USA
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17
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Abstract
In emerging adulthood, when many young people are away from their families for the first time, mobile phones become an important conduit for maintaining relationships with parents. Yet, objective assessment of the content and frequency of text messaging between emerging adults and their parents is lacking in much of the research to date. We collected two weeks of text messages exchanged between U.S. college students (N = 238) and their parents, which yielded nearly 30,000 parent-emerging adult text messages. We coded these text message exchanges for traditional features of parent-emerging adult communication indexing positive connection, monitoring and disclosures. Emerging adults texted more with mothers than with fathers and many messages constitute parental check-ins and emerging adult sharing regarding youth behavior and well-being. Findings highlight that both the frequency and content of parent-emerging adult text messages can be linked with positive (perceived text message support) and negative (perceived digital pressure) aspects of the parent-emerging adult relationship. The content of parent-emerging adult text messages offers a valuable, objective window into the nature of the parent-emerging adult relationships in the digital age of the 21st century.
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18
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A week during COVID-19: Online social interactions are associated with greater connection and more stress. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR REPORTS 2021; 4:100133. [PMID: 34693074 PMCID: PMC8525190 DOI: 10.1016/j.chbr.2021.100133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Who thrives while socially distancing? In this exploratory study, we polled over 500 participants from the United States on April 8, 2020—during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic when the practice of social distancing was at its peak. Above and beyond other social and nonsocial activities, living arrangements, employment circumstances, personality traits, and demographics, people who spent more time interacting with close others—in person or online—felt more socially connected. In contrast, people who spent more time interacting with weak ties, specifically online, experienced greater negative affect, more stress, and lower social connectedness. In sum, much like in-person interactions, online social interactions with strong ties are associated with higher well-being, but online interactions with weak ties are related to lower well-being.
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19
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McKenna-Plumley PE, Graham-Wisener L, Berry E, Groarke JM. Connection, constraint, and coping: A qualitative study of experiences of loneliness during the COVID-19 lockdown in the UK. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258344. [PMID: 34644328 PMCID: PMC8513854 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated physical distancing which is expected to continue in some form for the foreseeable future. Physical distancing policies have increased reliance on digital forms of social connection and there are widespread concerns about social isolation and mental health in this context. This qualitative study sought to understand how loneliness was experienced during physical distancing in the initial national UK COVID-19 lockdown. Eight individuals who reported feeling lonely during the initial lockdown were interviewed in May 2020. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Four main themes were identified: (1) Loss of in-person interaction causing loneliness, (2) Constrained freedom, (3) Challenging emotions, and (4) Coping with loneliness. The loss of in-person interaction contributed to feelings of loneliness and digital interaction was viewed as an insufficient alternative. Social freedom could be constrained by distancing policies and by social contacts, contributing to strained personal relationships and feelings of frustration as part of loneliness. Fluctuations in mood and difficult emotions were experienced alongside loneliness, and distraction and seeking reconnection were commonly reported methods of coping, although they were less accessible. These findings indicate that physical distancing measures can impact loneliness due to the limitations they impose on in-person social contact and the perceived insufficiency of digital contact as a substitute.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe E. McKenna-Plumley
- Centre for Improving Health-Related Quality of Life, School of Psychology, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Lisa Graham-Wisener
- Centre for Improving Health-Related Quality of Life, School of Psychology, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Berry
- Centre for Improving Health-Related Quality of Life, School of Psychology, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Jenny M. Groarke
- Centre for Improving Health-Related Quality of Life, School of Psychology, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
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20
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Hu Y, Qian Y. COVID-19, Inter-household Contact and Mental Well-Being Among Older Adults in the US and the UK. FRONTIERS IN SOCIOLOGY 2021; 6:714626. [PMID: 34381838 PMCID: PMC8350320 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2021.714626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Interacting with family members and friends from other households is a key part of everyday life and is crucial to people's mental well-being. The COVID-19 pandemic severely curtailed face-to-face contact between households, particularly for older adults (aged 60 and above), due to their high risk of developing severe illness if infected by COVID-19. In-person contact, where possible, was largely replaced by virtual interaction during the pandemic. This article examines how inter-household contact in face-to-face and virtual forms, as well as combinations of the two forms of contact, related to older adults' mental well-being during the pandemic. Data from two national longitudinal surveys, collected from the same respondents before (2018-2019) and during (June 2020) the pandemic, were comparatively analysed: the Health and Retirement Study in the US and Understanding Society in the UK. The findings showed a notable increase in loneliness in the US and a decline in general mental well-being in the UK following the outbreak of COVID-19. In both countries, more frequent inter-household face-to-face contact during the pandemic was associated with better general mental well-being, but inter-household virtual contact, via means such as telephone and digital media, was not associated with general mental well-being in either the US or the UK. In the US, older adults who engaged more frequently in virtual contact were more likely to feel lonely during the pandemic, particularly if their face-to-face contact was limited. In both countries, the increase in loneliness following the outbreak of the pandemic was greater for older adults who reported more virtual contact. The findings suggest that household-centred crisis management during the COVID-19 pandemic had unintended mental health implications in both the US and the UK, despite contextual differences between the two countries. Although face-to-face contact between households helped to sustain older adults' mental well-being, virtual contact was not a qualitatively equivalent alternative. The findings also provide an important evidence base for informing policy developments and for supporting the mental health of older people during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the longer term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Hu
- Department of Sociology, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Yue Qian
- Department of Sociology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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21
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Müssener U. Digital encounters: Human interactions in mHealth behavior change interventions. Digit Health 2021; 7:20552076211029776. [PMID: 34262783 PMCID: PMC8252401 DOI: 10.1177/20552076211029776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Digitalization and high mobile phone ownership globally have radically changed communication in all areas of society, including health care. Previous research has shown the effectiveness of behavior change interventions delivered by mobile phones and has highlighted advantages, such as that they require fewer resources than traditional face-to-face interventions and can be delivered at any time. One of the foremost questions pertaining to unsupported digital interventions is whether they can ever be comparable to in-person interventions. Little is known about the therapeutic alliance and the specific qualities of encounters in digital interactions for behavior change. Human interactions in digital interventions and their relationship with outcomes require further investigation. This paper aims to encourage critical reflection and further consideration of mHealth behavior change interventions in a digital age, when even the professional is excluded from the intervention. Questions are raised on the feelings associated with digital therapeutic relationships and how such interactions might affect user’s capacity for behavioral change. Some technological features and human-like considerations for enhancing digital encounters in mHealth interventions are given. Finally, suggestions for future research to facilitate the digital encounter in mHealth behavior change interventions is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrika Müssener
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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22
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Young SG, Brown M, Sacco DF. Using psychological science to support social distancing: Tradeoffs between affiliation and disease‐avoidance motivations. SOCIAL AND PERSONALITY PSYCHOLOGY COMPASS 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/spc3.12597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Steven G. Young
- Baruch College City University of New York New York City New York USA
- The Graduate Center City University of New York New York City New York USA
| | - Mitch Brown
- University of Arkansas Fayetteville Arkansas USA
| | - Donald F. Sacco
- The University of Southern Mississippi Hattiesburg Mississippi USA
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23
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Coping With Stress Through Texting: An Experimental Study. J Adolesc Health 2021; 68:565-571. [PMID: 32798096 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2020.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Texting is used by many adolescents and has the potential to improve well-being, as youth can reach out for support immediately after experiencing a stressful situation. Many studies have examined whether texting is associated with well-being, but few have used experimental designs, preventing causal claims. METHODS In this experimental study, 130 adolescents (Mage = 12.41) participated with a same-gender friend whom they texted regularly. Both adolescents completed a task that elicited stress and then engaged in one of the following randomly assigned activities: texting their friend, watching a video on a cellphone (passive-phone condition), or sitting quietly (no activity condition). Participants reported their mood and stress levels after the stress task and again after the activity. Heart rate variability was measured throughout. RESULTS Participants who texted their friend reported higher moods (b = -.80, standard error [SE] = .24, p < .001, ηp2 = .09) and lower stress at the end of the study than those in the no activity condition (b = .51, SE = .25, p = .046, ηp2 = .04) and higher moods than adolescents in the passive-phone condition (b = -.74, SE = .25, p = .004, ηp2 = .08). No differences were noted between the passive-phone and no activity conditions. There were no differences in heart rate variability between the three conditions. The effects of texting on mood, self-reported stress, and heart rate variability did not differ by gender. CONCLUSIONS Both boys and girls may benefit from texting a friend after experiencing a stressful event.
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24
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Sommerlad A, Marston L, Huntley J, Livingston G, Lewis G, Steptoe A, Fancourt D. Social relationships and depression during the COVID-19 lockdown: longitudinal analysis of the COVID-19 Social Study. Psychol Med 2021; 52:1-10. [PMID: 33436126 PMCID: PMC7844174 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291721000039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic led to measures that reduced social contact and support. We explored whether UK residents with more frequent or supportive social contact had fewer depressive symptoms during March-August 2020, and potential factors moderating the relationship. METHODS A convenience sample of UK dwelling participants aged ⩾18 in the internet-based longitudinal COVID-19 Social Study completed up to 22 weekly questionnaires about face-to-face and phone/video social contact frequency, perceived social support, and depressive symptoms using the PHQ-9. Mixed linear models examined associations between social contact and support, and depressive symptoms. We examined for interaction by empathic concern, perspective taking and pre-COVID social contact frequency. RESULTS In 71 117 people with mean age 49 years (standard deviation 15), those with high perceived social support scored 1.836 (1.801-1.871) points lower on PHQ-9 than those with low support. Daily face-to-face or phone/video contact was associated with lower depressive symptoms (0.258 (95% confidence interval 0.225-0.290) and 0.117 (0.080-0.154), respectively) compared to no contact. The negative association between social relationships and depressive symptoms was stronger for those with high empathic concern, perspective taking and usual sociability. CONCLUSIONS We found during lockdown that those with higher quality or more face-to-face or phone/video contact had fewer depressive symptoms. Contact quality was more strongly associated than quantity. People who were usually more sociable or had higher empathy had more depressive symptoms during enforced reduced contact. The results have implications for COVID-19 and potential future pandemic management, and for understanding the relationship between social factors and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Sommerlad
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Louise Marston
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Jonathan Huntley
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Gill Livingston
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Gemma Lewis
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Andrew Steptoe
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Daisy Fancourt
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
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25
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Oviedo VY, Fox Tree JE. Meeting by text or video-chat: Effects on confidence and performance. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chbr.2021.100054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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26
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Hamilton JL, Do QB, Choukas-Bradley S, Ladouceur CD, Silk JS. Where it Hurts the Most: Peer Interactions on Social Media and in Person are Differentially Associated with Emotional Reactivity and Sustained Affect Among Adolescent Girls. Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol 2020; 49:155-167. [PMID: 33294963 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-020-00725-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Social media (SM) use has increasingly changed how adolescents interact with their peers, yet it remains unclear how peer interactions on social media differ from in-person peer interactions. The current study evaluated whether the context (social media or in-person) of adolescent girls' worst and best peer interactions influenced their emotional responses to peer interactions and sustained affect in everyday life. In this study, a total of 110 adolescent girls (11-13 years old; mean age = 12.28 years) completed ecological momentary assessment (EMA) for 16 days following an initial baseline visit. Participants reported their worst (i.e., most negative) and best (i.e., most positive) interactions with peers since the last prompt, the context in which it occurred (social media or in-person), emotional reactivity during the interaction, and momentary affect. Multilevel models indicated that negative peer interactions that occurred on social media were more likely to be associated with sustained negative affect, but not negative emotional reactivity during the interaction. Positive interactions on social media were more likely to be associated with both lower positive emotional reactivity and lower sustained positive affect. Findings indicate that peer interactions on social media may differentially impact girls' emotional reactivity and sustained affect, particularly for positive interactions with peers. Findings highlight that social media and in-person peer interactions may impact how girls experience and respond to positive and negative peer interactions, which may have implications for peer relationships and onset of psychopathology during this vulnerable period.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Quyen B Do
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 210 S. Bouquet Street, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Cecile D Ladouceur
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 210 S. Bouquet Street, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jennifer S Silk
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA. .,Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 210 S. Bouquet Street, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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27
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The effects of smartphones on well-being: theoretical integration and research agenda. Curr Opin Psychol 2020; 36:77-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2020.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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28
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Ehrenreich SE, Beron KJ, Burnell K, Meter DJ, Underwood MK. How Adolescents Use Text Messaging Through their High School Years. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE 2020; 30:521-540. [PMID: 31868974 PMCID: PMC8669751 DOI: 10.1111/jora.12541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Co-construction theory suggests adolescents use digital communication to address developmental challenges. For a sample of 214 ethnically diverse adolescents, this research used direct observation to investigate the frequency, content, and timing of texting with parents, peers, and romantic partners through grades 9-12. Analyses showed that texting frequency follows a curvilinear trajectory, peaking in eleventh grade. Adolescents discussed a range of topics, predominantly with peers. Communication with parents was less frequent, but consistent over time. Approximately 45-65% of adolescents communicated with romantic partners, texting heavily and about topics similar to those discussed with peers. Texting may help adolescents navigate key developmental challenges of adolescence-the establishment of autonomy, intimate peer relationships, romantic relationships, and self-identity.
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29
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Subrahmanyam K, Frison E, Michikyan M. The relation between face‐to‐face and digital interactions and self‐esteem: A daily diary study. HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/hbe2.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kaveri Subrahmanyam
- Department of Psychology, California State UniversityLos Angeles & Children's Digital Media Center @ LA Los Angles California
| | - Eline Frison
- Communication Sciences, Leuven School for Mass Communication Research Leuven Belgium
| | - Minas Michikyan
- Department of Psychology, California State UniversityLos Angeles & Children's Digital Media Center @ LA Los Angles California
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30
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Abstract
This review delineates core components of the social media ecosystem, specifying how online platforms complicate established social psychological effects. We assess four pairs of social media elements and effects: profiles and self-presentation; networks and social mobilization; streams and social comparison; and messages and social connectedness. In the process, we describe features and affordances that comprise each element, underscoring the complexity of social media contexts as they shift to a central topic within psychology. Reflecting on this transitional state, we discuss how researchers will struggle to replicate the effects of dynamic social environments. Consequently, we outline the obstacles in isolating effects that reoccur across platforms, as well as the challenges and opportunities that come with measuring contexts across periods. By centering on the elements that define the online ecosystem, psychological research can establish a more durable foundation for replicating the effects of social media and chronicling the evolution of social interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph B. Bayer
- School of Communication, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA
| | - Penny Triệu
- School of Information, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA;,
| | - Nicole B. Ellison
- School of Information, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA;,
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31
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Bayer JB, Hauser DJ, Shah KM, O'Donnell MB, Falk EB. Social Exclusion Shifts Personal Network Scope. Front Psychol 2019; 10:1619. [PMID: 31396126 PMCID: PMC6667635 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Social exclusion has the potential to alter subsequent social interactions with the members of personal networks, especially given their online availability in contemporary life. Nonetheless, there is minimal research examining how social challenges such as exclusion alter ensuing interactions with personal ties. Here, we tested whether being excluded during a social interaction changed which relationships are most salient in an ostensibly unrelated, online news sharing task. Across three operationalizations of tie strength, exclusion (vs. inclusion) increased sharing to close friends, but (unexpectedly) decreased sharing to close family members. The findings provide preliminary evidence that negative encounters may shift attention toward certain types of network ties and away from others. Future work is needed to examine how social experiences influence personal network scope – i.e., who comes to mind – in the background of daily life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph B Bayer
- School of Communication, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Communication Studies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - David J Hauser
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Kinari M Shah
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Matthew Brook O'Donnell
- Annenberg School for Communication, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Emily B Falk
- Annenberg School for Communication, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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32
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I hear but I don't see you: Interacting over phone reduces the accuracy of perceiving affiliation in the other. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2018.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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33
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Mui PHC, Goudbeek MB, Roex C, Spierts W, Swerts MGJ. Smile Mimicry and Emotional Contagion in Audio-Visual Computer-Mediated Communication. Front Psychol 2018; 9:2077. [PMID: 30455653 PMCID: PMC6230620 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigate whether smile mimicry and emotional contagion are evident in non-text-based computer-mediated communication (CMC). Via an ostensibly real-time audio-visual CMC platform, participants interacted with a confederate who either smiled radiantly or displayed a neutral expression throughout the interaction. Automatic analyses of expressions displayed by participants indicated that smile mimicry was at play: A higher level of activation of the facial muscle that characterizes genuine smiles was observed among participants who interacted with the smiling confederate than among participants who interacted with the unexpressive confederate. However, there was no difference in the self-reported level of joviality between participants in the two conditions. Our findings demonstrate that people mimic smiles in audio-visual CMC, but that even though the diffusion of emotions has been documented in text-based CMC in previous studies, we find no convincing support for the phenomenon of emotional contagion in non-text-based CMC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe H C Mui
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Martijn B Goudbeek
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Camiel Roex
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Wout Spierts
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Marc G J Swerts
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
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34
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DeClerck D, Holtzman S. To text or talk: Does communication modality matter when providing criticism to others? COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2018.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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35
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Vaughan C, Trail TE, Mahmud A, Dellva S, Tanielian T, Friedman E. Informal Caregivers' Experiences and Perceptions of a Web-Based Peer Support Network: Mixed-Methods Study. J Med Internet Res 2018; 20:e257. [PMID: 30154074 PMCID: PMC6134228 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.9895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Web-based peer support interventions have shown promise in reducing social isolation and social support deficits among informal caregivers, but little research has examined how caregivers use and perceive these interventions. Objective In this study, we examined utilization and perceptions of a Web-based social support intervention for informal caregivers of wounded, ill, and injured United States military service members and veterans. Methods This was a mixed-methods study that used quantitative survey data and qualitative data from focus groups and interviews with informal caregivers enrolled in a Web-based peer support intervention to explore their use and perceptions of the intervention. The intervention was delivered via a website that featured interest groups organized around specific topics, webinars, webchats, and messaging functionality and was moderated by professionally trained peers. This study occurred in the context of a quasi-experimental outcome evaluation of the intervention, where intervention participants were compared with a group of military caregivers who were not enrolled in the intervention. Results Survey findings indicated that caregivers used the website infrequently, with 60.7% (128/211) visiting the website once a month or less, and passively, with a minority (32/144, 22.2%) of users (ie, those who had visited the website at least once during the past 3 months, N=144) posting comments or links to the network. Nonetheless, most users (121/144, 84.0%) endorsed moderate or greater satisfaction with the website on the survey, and focus group and interview participants reported benefiting sufficiently from passive use of the website (eg, reading posts). Quantitative and qualitative findings suggested that users viewed the website primarily as a source of informational support. Among 63.2% (91/144) of users who completed the survey, the most commonly reported network-related activity was obtaining information from the network’s resource library, and focus group and interview participants viewed the network primarily as an informational resource. Focus group and interview participants expressed an unmet need for emotional support and the desire for a more personal touch in the forms of more active engagement with other caregivers in the network and the creation of local, in-person support groups for caregivers. Conclusions These findings suggest that Web-based peer support interventions may lend themselves better to the provision of informational (vs emotional) support and may need to be supplemented by in-person peer support groups to better meet caregivers’ needs for emotional support.
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Alea N, Bluck S, Mroz EL, Edwards Z. The Social Function of Autobiographical Stories in the Personal and Virtual World: An Initial Investigation. Top Cogn Sci 2018; 11:794-810. [PMID: 30033676 DOI: 10.1111/tops.12370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Receiving another's autobiographical story may serve to elicit feelings of liking and empathy for the story sharer. Research has mostly examined social functions of autobiographical stories for in-person communications. The current experiment (N = 60) examined whether levels of liking, closeness, and empathy felt for a stranger (female confederate) after receiving her story depended on if (a) the story was received in-person or through instant message (IM), and (b) the story was positive or negative. Liking and having empathy for the stranger was higher in the in-person conditions compared to IM conditions. This effect was mediated by how engaged participants were with the story. Participants liked the stranger more after receiving the positive autobiographical story, but they felt more empathy toward her after the negative autobiographical story. The discussion considers parameters of the communication platform and people's perceptions of stories as explanations for the results. Limitations are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Alea
- Psychology Unit, Department of Behavioural Sciences, University of the West Indies (UWI)
| | - Susan Bluck
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida
| | | | - Zanique Edwards
- Psychology Unit, Department of Behavioural Sciences, University of the West Indies (UWI)
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