1
|
Danielsen HE, Finserås TR, Andersen AIO, Hjetland GJ, Woodfin V, Skogen JC. Mirror, mirror on my screen: Focus on self-presentation on social media is associated with perfectionism and disordered eating among adolescents. Results from the "LifeOnSoMe"-study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:2466. [PMID: 39256709 PMCID: PMC11389274 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19317-9] [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: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social media use, perfectionism, and disordered eating have all increased over the last decades. Some studies indicate that there is a relationship between self-presentation behaviors and being exposed to others' self-presentation on social media, and disordered eating. Studies also show that the relationship between focus on self-presentation and highly visual social media is stronger than for non-visual social media, hence facilitating upward social comparison. Nevertheless, no previous studies have investigated the link between adolescents' focus on self-presentation and upward social comparison on social media, and perfectionism and disordered eating, which is the aim of the present study. METHOD The present study is based on a cross-sectional survey from the "LifeOnSoMe"-study (N = 3424), conducted in 2020 and 2021. Respondents were high school students (mean age 17.3 years, 56% females) in Bergen, Norway. Multiple regression analysis was performed, where SPAUSCIS, a measure of self-presentation and upward social comparison, was the independent variable. Perfectionism and disordered eating were dependent variables. Self-reported age, gender, and subjective socioeconomic status were used as covariates, as well as frequency and duration of social media use. Regression models were performed to compare proportions across the median split of SPAUSCIS. RESULTS The multiple regression analysis showed that increased focus on self-presentation and upward social comparison on social media were positively associated with both perfectionism (standardized coefficient 0.28) and disordered eating. A stronger association for girls than boys was found for disordered eating (standardized coefficient 0.39 for girls and 0.29 for boys). There was no gender moderation for perfectionism. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that focus on self-presentation and upward social comparison on social media is associated with perfectionism and disordered eating. We recommend promoting a healthy use of social media. This could be established by increasing adolescents' ability to reflect on and think critically about self-presentation and upward social comparison on social media.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hilde Einarsdatter Danielsen
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway.
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Turi Reiten Finserås
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Gunnhild Johnsen Hjetland
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
- Centre for Evaluation of Public Health Measures, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Vivian Woodfin
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Solli District Psychiatric Centre, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jens Christoffer Skogen
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
- Centre for Evaluation of Public Health Measures, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Center for Alcohol and Drug Research (KORFOR), Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Merino M, Tornero-Aguilera JF, Rubio-Zarapuz A, Villanueva-Tobaldo CV, Martín-Rodríguez A, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Body Perceptions and Psychological Well-Being: A Review of the Impact of Social Media and Physical Measurements on Self-Esteem and Mental Health with a Focus on Body Image Satisfaction and Its Relationship with Cultural and Gender Factors. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1396. [PMID: 39057539 PMCID: PMC11276240 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12141396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This narrative review examines the interplay among body image perceptions, social media influence, physical measurements, and their impact on psychological well-being, focusing on the roles of cultural and gender differences and the need to understand the research methodologies employed in this field. In the age of digital proliferation, platforms like Instagram and Facebook have reshaped body image concerns, often leading to increased dissatisfaction and psychological distress due to constant exposure to idealized images and a culture of social comparison. Physical attributes such as weight, height, and BMI are scrutinized under societal standards of health and attractiveness, contributing to a spectrum of mental health issues including low self-esteem, depression, and eating disorders. This examination reveals how cultural norms and gender expectations further complicate body image perceptions, affecting individuals differently based on societal and personal ideals. It synthesizes current research and types of methods to illuminate how these factors together influence mental health and self-esteem, advocating for comprehensive interventions and policy measures aimed at mitigating body dissatisfaction and promoting a healthier, more inclusive understanding of body image. By delving into the complexities of body image satisfaction and its psychological implications, this review highlights the necessity of addressing these concerns within public health and social policy frameworks, underscoring the importance of a multifaceted approach to enhance individual and societal well-being.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Merino
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (M.M.); (J.F.T.-A.); (A.M.-R.)
| | | | - Alejandro Rubio-Zarapuz
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (M.M.); (J.F.T.-A.); (A.M.-R.)
| | | | - Alexandra Martín-Rodríguez
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (M.M.); (J.F.T.-A.); (A.M.-R.)
| | - Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (M.M.); (J.F.T.-A.); (A.M.-R.)
- Grupo de Investigación en Cultura, Educación y Sociedad, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla 080002, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Pang H, Zhang K. Determining multidimensional influences of network heterogeneity on university students' psychological and academic well-being: The mediating role of social network exhaustion. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32328. [PMID: 38947467 PMCID: PMC11214475 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Mobile social media has become indispensable to university students' communication with various socio-demographic populations, exposing them to diverse social networks and augmenting their network heterogeneity. Although the psychological ramifications of network heterogeneity have been extensively examined, its correlated academic outcomes remain inconclusive. The current study formulated an integrated theoretical research model based on the stressor-stress-outcome framework to investigate the influence of factors associated with network heterogeneity (specifically, privacy invasion, social comparison, self-presentation, and excessive WeChat use) on social media exhaustion, psychological well-being, and academic well-being among university students. Furthermore, the research examined the mediating effect of social network exhaustion among network heterogeneity, psychological well-being, and academic well-being. A cross-sectional survey of 1128 WeChat users revealed that social comparison and excessive WeChat use had positive associations with social network exhaustion, while privacy invasion and self-presentation were negatively correlated with social network exhaustion. Additionally, social network exhaustion was negatively correlated with psychological well-being and academic well-being. Furthermore, social network exhaustion mediated the influences of network heterogeneity on psychological well-being and academic well-being. These obtained results could contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the underlying causes of social network exhaustion and the multifaceted effects of network heterogeneity. These insights may prove valuable for practitioners to enhance university students' psychological states and academic performance in the contemporary mobile media-saturated environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hua Pang
- School of New Media and Communication, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Kaige Zhang
- School of New Media and Communication, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Anto A, Asif RO, Basu A, Kanapathipillai D, Salam H, Selim R, Zaman J, Eisingerich AB. Exploring the Impact of Social Media on Anxiety Among University Students in the United Kingdom: Qualitative Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e43037. [PMID: 37327030 PMCID: PMC10337317 DOI: 10.2196/43037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rapid surge in social media platforms has significant implications for users' mental health, particularly anxiety. In the case of social media, the impact on mental well-being has been highlighted by multiple stakeholders as a cause for concern. However, there has been limited research into how the association between social media and anxiety arises, specifically among university students-the generation that has seen the introduction and evolution of social media, and currently lives through the medium. Extant systematic literature reviews within this area of research have not yet focused on university students or anxiety, rather predominantly investigating adolescents or generalized mental health symptoms and disorders. Furthermore, there is little to no qualitative data exploring the association between social media and anxiety among university students. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to conduct a systematic literature review of the existing literature and a qualitative study that aims to develop foundational knowledge around the association of social media and anxiety among university students and enhance extant knowledge and theory. METHODS A total of 29 semistructured interviews were conducted, comprising 19 male students (65.5%) and 10 female students (34.5%) with a mean age of 21.5 years. All students were undergraduates from 6 universities across the United Kingdom, with most students studying in London (89.7%). Participants were enrolled through a homogenous purposive sampling technique via social media channels, word of mouth, and university faculties. Recruitment was suspended at the point of data saturation. Participants were eligible for the study if they were university students in the United Kingdom and users of social media. RESULTS Thematic analysis resulted in 8 second-order themes: 3 mediating factors that decrease anxiety levels and 5 factors that increase anxiety levels. Social media decreased anxiety through positive experiences, social connectivity, and escapism. Social media increased anxiety through stress, comparison, fear of missing out, negative experiences, and procrastination. CONCLUSIONS This qualitative study sheds critical light on how university students perceive how social media affects their anxiety levels. Students revealed that social media did impact their anxiety levels and considered it an important factor in their mental health. Thus, it is essential to educate stakeholders, including students, university counselors, and health care professionals, about the potential impact of social media on students' anxiety levels. Since anxiety is a multifactorial condition, pinpointing the main stressors in a person's life, such as social media use, may help manage these patients more effectively. The current research highlights that there are also many benefits to social media, and uncovering these may help in producing more holistic management plans for anxiety, reflective of the students' social media usage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ailin Anto
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rafey Omar Asif
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Arunima Basu
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Haadi Salam
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rania Selim
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jahed Zaman
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Azem L, Al Alwani R, Lucas A, Alsaadi B, Njihia G, Bibi B, Alzubaidi M, Househ M. Social Media Use and Depression in Adolescents: A Scoping Review. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:475. [PMID: 37366727 DOI: 10.3390/bs13060475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This scoping review aimed to investigate the association between depression and social media use among adolescents. The study analyzed 43 papers using five databases to identify articles published from 2012 to August 2022. The results revealed a connection between social media use and depression, as well as other negative outcomes such as anxiety, poor sleep, low self-esteem, and social and appearance anxiety. Surveys were the most used study strategy, with multiple common scales applied to assess depression, social media use, and other factors such as self-esteem and sleep quality. Among the studies, eight reported that females who use social media showed higher depression symptoms than males. This scoping review provides an overview of the current literature on the relationship between social media use and depression among adolescents. The findings emphasize the importance of monitoring social media use and providing support for individuals struggling with depression. However, more research is needed to better understand the factors contributing to this relationship and to develop more standardized assessment methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Layan Azem
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - Rafaa Al Alwani
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - Augusto Lucas
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - Balqes Alsaadi
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - Gilbert Njihia
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - Bushra Bibi
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - Mahmood Alzubaidi
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - Mowafa Househ
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha 34110, Qatar
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Stapleton F, Abad JC, Barabino S, Burnett A, Iyer G, Lekhanont K, Li T, Liu Y, Navas A, Obinwanne CJ, Qureshi R, Roshandel D, Sahin A, Shih K, Tichenor A, Jones L. TFOS lifestyle: Impact of societal challenges on the ocular surface. Ocul Surf 2023; 28:165-199. [PMID: 37062429 PMCID: PMC10102706 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Societal factors associated with ocular surface diseases were mapped using a framework to characterize the relationship between the individual, their health and environment. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and mitigating factors on ocular surface diseases were considered in a systematic review. Age and sex effects were generally well-characterized for inflammatory, infectious, autoimmune and trauma-related conditions. Sex and gender, through biological, socio-economic, and cultural factors impact the prevalence and severity of disease, access to, and use of, care. Genetic factors, race, smoking and co-morbidities are generally well characterized, with interdependencies with geographical, employment and socioeconomic factors. Living and working conditions include employment, education, water and sanitation, poverty and socioeconomic class. Employment type and hobbies are associated with eye trauma and burns. Regional, global socio-economic, cultural and environmental conditions, include remoteness, geography, seasonality, availability of and access to services. Violence associated with war, acid attacks and domestic violence are associated with traumatic injuries. The impacts of conflict, pandemic and climate are exacerbated by decreased food security, access to health services and workers. Digital technology can impact diseases through physical and mental health effects and access to health information and services. The COVID-19 pandemic and related mitigating strategies are mostly associated with an increased risk of developing new or worsening existing ocular surface diseases. Societal factors impact the type and severity of ocular surface diseases, although there is considerable interdependence between factors. The overlay of the digital environment, natural disasters, conflict and the pandemic have modified access to services in some regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Stapleton
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Juan Carlos Abad
- Department of Ophthalmology, Antioquia Ophthalmology Clinic-Clofan, Medellin, Antioquia, Colombia
| | - Stefano Barabino
- ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Ospedale L. Sacco-University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Anthea Burnett
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Geetha Iyer
- C. J. Shah Cornea Services, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kaevalin Lekhanont
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tianjing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Yang Liu
- Ophthalmology Department, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Alejandro Navas
- Conde de Valenciana, National Autonomous University of Mexico UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Riaz Qureshi
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Danial Roshandel
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Afsun Sahin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Koc University Medical School, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Kendrick Shih
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Anna Tichenor
- School of Optometry, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Lyndon Jones
- Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE), School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ranganath P, Hjetland GJ, Finserås TR, Brunborg GS, Hesse M, Skogen JC. Negative experiences, social exclusion and unwanted attention on social media: exploring the association with adolescent alcohol use. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2361. [PMID: 36527010 PMCID: PMC9756586 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14679-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents' presence on Social Media (SoMe) facilitates peer connections making them susceptible to peer-influences and approval. Negative experiences on SoMe can affect adolescent stress and wellbeing, impelling their use of alcohol. This paper provides a novel understanding of the relationship between negative experiences on SoMe and key indicators of alcohol use in adolescents. METHODS Data was collected from upper secondary school students (n = 3528, ages 16-19, 45% boys) in Bergen (Norway) using a web-based questionnaire during school-hours in 2020 and 2021. Dependent variables were alcohol consumption, binge drinking and scoring ≥ 2 points on the CRAFFT instrument screening for substance use problems in adolescents. Independent variables were two scales indicating "negative acts and exclusion" and "unwanted attention from others". Covariates included age, gender, country of birth and subjective socioeconomic status. Results are presented as relative risk ratios (RRR), odds ratios (OR) and incidence rate ratios (IRR) with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS Using multinomial logistic regression models, "negative acts and exclusion" and "unwanted attention" were positively associated with trying alcohol (OR: 1.50 (95% CI 1.28-1.76) and 1.86 (95% CI 1.66-2.09) respectively, both p ≤ 0.001), with frequency and amount of alcohol consumed. Findings from logistic regression models indicated that "negative acts and exclusion" and "unwanted attention" were positively associated with i. CRAFFT-caseness (OR: 2.13 and 1.86) and ii. frequent binge drinking (OR: 1.55 and 1.89). CONCLUSION Both exclusion and unwanted attention on SoMe were associated with indicators of problematic drinking, including frequency, quantity, and consequences related to alcohol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priya Ranganath
- grid.7048.b0000 0001 1956 2722Center for Alcohol and Drug Research, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 10, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Gunnhild Johnsen Hjetland
- grid.418193.60000 0001 1541 4204Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway ,grid.418193.60000 0001 1541 4204Centre for Evaluation of Public Health Measures, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Turi Reiten Finserås
- grid.418193.60000 0001 1541 4204Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
| | - Geir Scott Brunborg
- grid.418193.60000 0001 1541 4204Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway ,grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626 Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Morten Hesse
- grid.7048.b0000 0001 1956 2722Center for Alcohol and Drug Research, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 10, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jens Christoffer Skogen
- grid.418193.60000 0001 1541 4204Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway ,grid.418193.60000 0001 1541 4204Centre for Evaluation of Public Health Measures, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway ,grid.412835.90000 0004 0627 2891Alcohol and Drug Research Western Norway, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lopes LS, Valentini JP, Monteiro TH, Costacurta MCDF, Soares LON, Telfar-Barnard L, Nunes PV. Problematic Social Media Use and Its Relationship with Depression or Anxiety: A Systematic Review. CYBERPSYCHOLOGY, BEHAVIOR, AND SOCIAL NETWORKING 2022; 25:691-702. [DOI: 10.1089/cyber.2021.0300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Paula Villela Nunes
- Department of Psychiatry, Jundiai Medical School, Jundiai, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychiatry Institute, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hjetland GJ, Finserås TR, Sivertsen B, Colman I, Hella RT, Skogen JC. Focus on Self-Presentation on Social Media across Sociodemographic Variables, Lifestyles, and Personalities: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11133. [PMID: 36078843 PMCID: PMC9518022 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191711133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Upward social comparison and aspects of self-presentation on social media such as feedback-seeking and strategic self-presentation may represent risk factors for experiencing negative mental health effects of social media use. The aim of this exploratory study was to assess how adolescents differ in upward social comparison and aspects of self-presentation on social media and whether these differences are linked to sociodemographic variables, lifestyle, or personality. The study was based on cross-sectional data from the "LifeOnSoMe" study performed in Bergen, Norway, including 2023 senior high school pupils (response rate 54%, mean age 17.4, 44% boys). Nine potentially relevant items were assessed using factor analysis, and latent class analysis was used to identify latent classes with distinct patterns of responses across seven retained items. The retained items converged into one factor, called "focus on self-presentation". We identified three groups of adolescents with a low, intermediate, and high focus on self-presentation. Associations between identified latent classes and covariates were assessed using regression analyses. Being a girl, higher extraversion, lower emotional stability, more frequent alcohol consumption, and having tried tobacco were associated with membership in the high-focus group. These results suggest some characteristics that are associated with a higher focus on self-presentation and that could inform targeted interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gunnhild Johnsen Hjetland
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 5015 Bergen, Norway
- Centre for Evaluation of Public Health Measures, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 0473 Oslo, Norway
| | - Turi Reiten Finserås
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 5015 Bergen, Norway
| | - Børge Sivertsen
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 5015 Bergen, Norway
- Department of Research and Innovation, Helse Fonna HF, 5525 Haugesund, Norway
- Department of Mental Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Ian Colman
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1G 5Z3, Canada
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 0473 Oslo, Norway
| | - Randi Træland Hella
- Department of Work, Section for Children, Families and Disabled, Social Services and Housing, 5014 Bergen, Norway
| | - Jens Christoffer Skogen
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 5015 Bergen, Norway
- Centre for Evaluation of Public Health Measures, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 0473 Oslo, Norway
- Alcohol and Drug Research Western Norway, Stavanger University Hospital, 4036 Stavanger, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Smith T. An exploratory analysis of the relationship of problematic Facebook use with loneliness and self-esteem: the mediating roles of extraversion and self-presentation. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 42:1-15. [PMID: 35967491 PMCID: PMC9358083 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03505-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Studies indicate that loneliness and self-esteem are predictive factors of problematic social media use. Further, it is proposed that self-presentation and extraversion may explain individual differences in online activity and problematic social media use. The present study confirms the relationship of loneliness and self-esteem with problematic Facebook use and investigates the hypothesis that these psychological factors may be linked to problematic Facebook use through their association with self-presentation and extraversion. The sample of university students consisted of 477 Facebook users, 64% females, aged 18-64. Social media usage intensity was assessed by collecting passive data on the total time spent and the number of sessions on Facebook per day for the last 6 months. The psychological factors, personality, motives and problematic Facebook use were assessed via self-report measures. Results showed that the relationship of loneliness and self-esteem with problematic Facebook use was significantly positive and negative respectively. The relationship between self-esteem and problematic Facebook use was found to be inconsistently mediated by both self-presentation and extraversion, while loneliness was partially mediated by self-presentation only. The total effect of loneliness and self-esteem remained positive and negative respectively, although extraversion and self-presentation had a suppressing effect on the relationship between self-esteem and problematic Facebook use. Further, the prevalence of 'at-risk' Facebook users was found to be 6.0%. It was also determined that the usage intensity of 'at-risk' users was significantly different from other Facebook users. These results highlight the existence of different patterns of associations linking psychological factors, usage intensity and problematic Facebook use. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12144-022-03505-0.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Troy Smith
- Targeted Evidence-Based Research Solutions Ltd, Arouca, Trinidad and Tobago
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wisessathorn M, Pramepluem N, Kaewwongsa S. Factor structure and interpretation on the Thai-Social Media Engagement Scale (T-SMES). Heliyon 2022; 8:e09985. [PMID: 35874076 PMCID: PMC9305356 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the fact that social media has become an integral part of daily life, particularly in the new normal society, there are few instruments for measuring social media usage with a cut-off score. As a reason, the objective of this study was to develop a Thai-Social Media Engagement Scale (T-SMES) that has been verified for validity and reliability as well as a cut-off score for interpretation. Data was collected from 403 participants through an online questionnaire. The findings of exploratory factor analysis (EFA) revealed that the T-SMES was extracted into three components; accounted for 66.44% of the total variance, including (1) feeling at ease and not missing out, (2) making it a habit, and (3) a sense of being attracted to and connected to others. The test items were satisfactory in terms of validity and reliability. For identifying high social media engagement, a cut-off score of 24 was found to be optimal (sensitivity = 80.9%, specificity = 72.2%, positive predictive rate (PPR) = 92.3%, negative predictive rate (NPR) = 47.9%, and accuracy rate = 79.2%). Overall, the findings suggest that the T-SMES is an empirically valid and reliable instrument for measuring social media engagement, with optimal cut-off scores that can be used in practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manika Wisessathorn
- Faculty of Education, Ramkhamhaeng University, Thailand
- Corresponding author.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Skogen JC, Bøe T, Finserås TR, Sivertsen B, Hella RT, Hjetland GJ. Lower Subjective Socioeconomic Status Is Associated With Increased Risk of Reporting Negative Experiences on Social Media. Findings From the "LifeOnSoMe"-Study. Front Public Health 2022; 10:873463. [PMID: 35769790 PMCID: PMC9234458 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.873463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To investigate the association between subjective socioeconomic status (SES) and a) frequency and daily duration of social media use, and b) self-reported negative experiences on social media platforms. Methods The present study is based on the cross-sectional school-based "LifeOnSoMe"-study (N = 3,415) recruiting high school students aged 16 years or more in Bergen, Norway. Subjective SES was the independent variable and measured by perceived family affluence. The dependent variables included self-reported amount of social media use, and eight different types of negative experiences on social media. Self-reported age, gender, country of birth and type study were used as covariates. Statistical analyses included multinomial logistic regression and negative binomial regression models. Results For amount of social media use, we only found relatively weak and inconsistent associations with SES. In contrast, the associations between SES and separate variables gauging negative experiences were robust in crude models as well as in models adjusted for age and gender. The number of different negative experiences were increased by 1.25 times for those with low and by 1.10 times for those with medium socioeconomic status, compared to those with high socioeconomic status in fully adjusted models. For composite measures of "negative acts and exclusion" and "unwanted attention from others," the difference between low and high SES was equivalent to a small-to-moderate effect size even after adjustments for age, gender, country of birth, type of study and amount of social media use. Conclusions In the present study, we found consistent and strong support for an association between SES and negative experiences on social media even after adjustments for age, gender, country of birth, type of study, and amount of social media use. The potential link between SES and negative experiences on social media as reported in this study is likely to have a public health impact. As the reported findings are novel, they need to be replicated in forthcoming studies based on other study populations. Future research should also focus on other aspects of SES and negative experiences, as well as endeavor to investigate potential longitudinal associations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jens Christoffer Skogen
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
- Centre for Evaluation of Public Health Measures, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Alcohol and Drug Research Western Norway, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway
| | - Tormod Bøe
- Department of Psychosocial Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Turi Reiten Finserås
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
| | - Børge Sivertsen
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Research and Innovation, Helse Fonna HF, Haugesund, Norway
- Department of Mental Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Randi Træland Hella
- Department of Work, Social Services and Housing, Section for Welfare, Bergen Municipality, Bergen, Norway
| | - Gunnhild Johnsen Hjetland
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
- Centre for Evaluation of Public Health Measures, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
van der Schyff K, Renaud K, Townes JP, Tshiqi N. Investigating the mediating effects of phubbing on self-presentation and FoMO within the context of excessive Instagram use. COGENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/23311908.2022.2062879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Karl van der Schyff
- Department of Information Systems, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa
| | - Karen Renaud
- Department of Information Systems, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa
- Department of Computer and Information Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
- School of Computing, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | - Naledi Tshiqi
- Department of Information Systems, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Nguyen VT. The perceptions of social media users of digital detox apps considering personality traits. EDUCATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES 2022; 27:9293-9316. [PMID: 35370441 PMCID: PMC8964389 DOI: 10.1007/s10639-022-11022-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of users about using digital detox applications and to display relationships among personality traits and technology-related variables. This study was designed using survey approach and employed Generalized Structured Component Analysis (GSCA). As such, 11 hypotheses were constructed and tested. The study recruited 263 participants who utilize detox applications to avoid social media distractions. Data were collected through Google Form and analyzed using GSCA Pro 1.1 to better understand whether the proposed conceptual model fits the data. The results of the study indicated that behavioral intention predicted usage behavior significantly; performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence positively affected behavioral intention; in turn, agreeableness and extroversion positively influenced performance expectancy, and extroversion affected effort expectancy; finally, neuroticism had a statistically significant and negatively associated with effort expectancy of using social media detox apps. The significant exceptions were that facilitating conditions were not predictive of behavioral intention, openness to experience did not influence performance expectancy, and conscientiousness was not linked to effort expectancy. The proposed conceptual model explained 56.68% of the amount of variation, indicating that instructors, policy makers and software designers should consider personal factors for preparing practical intervention approaches to mitigate learning issues related to social media distraction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vinh T. Nguyen
- TNU - University of Information and Communication Technology, Thai Nguyen, Vietnam
- FPT University, Ha Noi, Vietnam
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Svensson R, Johnson B, Olsson A. Does gender matter? The association between different digital media activities and adolescent well-being. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:273. [PMID: 35144587 PMCID: PMC8832746 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-12670-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous research on the relationship between social media use and well-being in adolescents has yielded inconsistent results. We addressed this issue by examining the association between various digital media activities, including a new and differentiated measure of social media use, and well-being (internalizing symptoms) in adolescent boys and girls. Method The sample was drawn from the four cross-sectional surveys from the Öckerö project (2016–2019) in eight municipalities in southern Sweden, consisting of 3957 adolescents in year 7 of compulsory education, aged 12–13. We measured the following digital media activities: playing games and three different activities of social media use (chatting, online sociability, and self-presentation). Our outcome measure was internalizing symptoms. Hypotheses were tested with linear regression analysis. Results Social media use and playing games were positively associated with internalizing symptoms. The effect of social media use was conditional on gender, indicating that social media use was only associated with internalizing symptoms for girls. Of the social media activities, only chatting and self-presentation (posting information about themselves) were positively associated with internalizing symptoms. Self-presentation was associated with internalizing symptoms only for girls. Conclusion Our study shows the importance of research going beyond studying the time spent on social media to examine how different kinds of social media activities are associated with well-being. Consistent with research in psychology, our results suggest that young girls posting information about themselves (i.e. self-presentation) might be especially vulnerable to display internalizing symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Svensson
- Department of Criminology, Malmö University, 205 06, Malmö, Sweden.
| | - Björn Johnson
- Department of Social Work, Malmö University, 205 06, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Andreas Olsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhu X, Xiong Z. Exploring Association Between Social Media Addiction, Fear of Missing Out, and Self-Presentation Online Among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:896762. [PMID: 35633794 PMCID: PMC9136033 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.896762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social media addiction (SMA) is known to be associated with excess use of social media. However, few studies have focused on the links of self-presentation on social media, fear of missing out (FoMO) and SMA. The present study investigated the relationships of self-presentation, FoMO and SMA among university students. METHODS Online survey was conducted with 2,744 respondents, who completed online survey including social media use, FoMO and SMA. Self-presentation on social media and privacy information protection were assessed via researcher-designed questionnaires. Self-presentation on social media was composed of basic information shown on social media and expression willingness. Privacy information protection contained information viewed by others and privacy settings in social media platforms. RESULTS The most common information posted on social media were gender, hobby, age, personal photos, videos, and birthday. The most common social platforms with privacy setting were QQ zone (62.2%), WeChat (60.1%), and QQ (40.3%). FoMO (OR = 2.852, P = 0.000), information viewed by others (OR = 4.261, P = 0.000), managing a personal homepage (OR = 1.339, P = 0.002), accept a stranger's "friend request" (OR = 1.251, P = 0.028) and undergraduate students and above (OR = 1.439, P = 0.001) predicted expression willingness. FoMO (OR = 5.278, P = 0.000), information viewed by others (OR = 9.673, P = 0.000), privacy setting in QQ (OR = 0.817, P = 0.002) and in Tik Tok (OR = 0.536, P = 0.019) and female (OR = 0.588, P = 0.004) significantly influenced basic information shown on social media. Furthermore, FoMO (OR = 4.165, P = 0.000), expression willingness (OR = 1.645, P = 0.000), and information viewed by others (OR = 1.406, P = 0.000) positively affected the level of SMA. Risk of SMA increased as time spent on social media per day. However, basic information shown on social media did not significantly influence SMA. CONCLUSION In general, students with higher level of FoMO and expression willingness are more likely to experience SMA. These results highlight individual behaviors on social media should be considered as essential elements for assessing problematic engaging to social media.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinhong Zhu
- School of Nursing, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhenfang Xiong
- School of Nursing, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hjetland GJ, Schønning V, Aasan BEV, Hella RT, Skogen JC. Pupils' Use of Social Media and Its Relation to Mental Health from a School Personnel Perspective: A Preliminary Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18179163. [PMID: 34501753 PMCID: PMC8431308 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18179163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The extent of mental health problems among adolescents seems to be on the rise, and this observed trend has often been linked to a coinciding increase in social media use. The goal of the current preliminary study was to investigate how senior high school personnel experience the role of social media in relation to the mental health of their pupils. Two focus group interviews (total n = 11) were completed and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis, resulting in 4 themes and 11 subthemes. The results illustrate that school personnel experience social media as a tool for communication, but also as a potential cause of mental health issues and reduced academic performance among pupils. The participants called for schools to become better equipped to meet the opportunities and challenges of social media.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gunnhild Johnsen Hjetland
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 5015 Bergen, Norway; (V.S.); (J.C.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Viktor Schønning
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 5015 Bergen, Norway; (V.S.); (J.C.S.)
| | - Bodil Elisabeth Valstad Aasan
- HUNT Research Centre, Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7600 Levanger, Norway;
| | - Randi Træland Hella
- Department of Work, Social Services and Housing, Section for Children, Families and Disabled, 5020 Bergen, Norway;
| | - Jens Christoffer Skogen
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 5015 Bergen, Norway; (V.S.); (J.C.S.)
- Alcohol and Drug Research Western Norway, Stavanger University Hospital, 4068 Stavanger, Norway
- Department of Public Health, University of Stavanger, 4036 Stavanger, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Chen S, van Tilburg WAP, Leman PJ. Self-objectification in women predicts approval motivation in online self-presentation. BRITISH JOURNAL OF SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 61:366-388. [PMID: 34287958 DOI: 10.1111/bjso.12485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Researchers have examined self-objectification - viewing oneself as an object rather than a subject - in terms of its impact on intrapersonal factors, such as mental health and cognitive performance. However, few have examined how self-objectification relates to interpersonal factors. The present research addressed this gap by testing the impact of self-objectification on social approval motivation among women. Study 1 (n = 103) found that individual differences in self-objectification correlated positively with approval motivation. Study 2 (n = 94) replicated these results and found that women who reported higher self-objectification were more willing to modify their social media profile pictures unrealistically. In Study 3 (n = 100), higher self-objectifying women were more willing to unrealistically modify their profile pictures even if this exceeded normative levels, which was replicated in Study 4 (n = 199). These results suggest that women's self-objectification is associated with a desire for approval from others and this desire manifests in a willingness to modify self-presentation.
Collapse
|
19
|
Hung K, Lee NA, Peng K, Sui J. Profile Pictures in the Digital World: Self-Photographs Predict Better Life Satisfaction. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18126667. [PMID: 34205720 PMCID: PMC8296380 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18126667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Profiles pictures as online identities represent an extension of the user’s self in the digital world. Changes in self-representation are responsible for reduced well-being in individuals in the offline world. However, whether profile picture selection predicts the well-being of internet users is unknown. To address this question, we tested the relationship between the type of profile picture (e.g., self-photographs or other pictures) used on social media and the life satisfaction of internet users, accounting for gender and personality traits that have been thought to relate to the selection of profile pictures. The results showed that individuals using self-photographs as profiles reported a higher level of life satisfaction compared to individuals using other pictures as profiles. This effect was influenced by gender, openness, and extraversion. Hierarchical regression and moderation analyses revealed that openness and profile type interacted to predict life satisfaction in women, while openness and profile picture independently predicted life satisfaction in men. Furthermore, extraversion directly predicted life satisfaction in both men and women. These results indicate that the consistency between one’s online and offline self-representation may characterize internet users’ well-being, with potential implications for digital wellness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kalai Hung
- Department of Psychology, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China;
- Correspondence:
| | - Naomi A. Lee
- School of Psychology, University of Aberdeen, King’s College, Old Aberdeen AB24 3FX, UK; (N.A.L.); (J.S.)
| | - Kaiping Peng
- Department of Psychology, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China;
| | - Jie Sui
- School of Psychology, University of Aberdeen, King’s College, Old Aberdeen AB24 3FX, UK; (N.A.L.); (J.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hjetland GJ, Schønning V, Hella RT, Veseth M, Skogen JC. How do Norwegian adolescents experience the role of social media in relation to mental health and well-being: a qualitative study. BMC Psychol 2021; 9:78. [PMID: 33985590 PMCID: PMC8120824 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-021-00582-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background During the last decade, social media has permeated most parts of society. Adolescents are particularly active users of social media, and their use has been suggested as a contributing factor to mental health issues in this group. Quantitative studies have found associations between the frequency and/or duration of social media use and more mental health issues. However, most studies are cross-sectional and the identified associations are weak and of questionable practical significance. The aim of this study was to investigate adolescents’ lived experiences of using social media, focusing on both negative and positive aspects, using a qualitative approach. Qualitative research enables in-depth explorations of the experiences of individuals, nuance quantitative findings, and offer the perspective of adolescents into policies regarding social media use. Methods Experiences and perspectives of 27 adolescents from two senior high schools in Norway were gathered using focus group interviews (mean age 16.8, range 15–18). The data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results According to the participants, social media use catalyse changes to how people communicate and relate to each other (theme 1). Some changes were positive, in terms of facilitating social connectedness, while others were negative, such as people behaving worse than in face-to-face interactions. Further, social media use affected the participants at the individual level (theme 2); positively in terms of a sense of belonging and social support, and negatively in terms of perceived stress, body pressure, and displacing other activities such as sleep and homework. The motivations for using, or not using, social media were multifaceted (theme 3), reflecting the positive and negative aspects of social media in terms of interpersonal and personal consequences. Conclusion Social media was described as an important part of the participants’ everyday life, with both a positive and negative impact on their mental health and well-being. Considering the compelling nature of social media and adolescents’ relatively limited self-regulatory capacities, efforts to modify social media use should avoid relying on self-regulation, while also recognizing the importance of social media as an arena for peer interaction. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40359-021-00582-x.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Viktor Schønning
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
| | - Randi Træland Hella
- Department of Work, Section for Children, Families and Disabled, Social Services and Housing, City of Bergen, Norway
| | - Marius Veseth
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jens Christoffer Skogen
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Stavanger, Stavanger, Norway.,Alcohol and Drug Research Western Norway, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway
| |
Collapse
|