A recent study suggests that young adults who passively browse social media content are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and stress compared to active users who share their own content.
The study surveyed 288 individuals aged 18 to 34 to examine how different styles of social media engagement affect feelings of loneliness and psychological distress.
Dr. Constantina Panourgia, senior lecturer in developmental psychology at Bournemouth University (BU), explains, “According to the Office for National Statistics, young adults experience the highest levels of loneliness. Social media is of significant importance to this group, with some praising its benefits while others criticize it.”
Previous studies have primarily focused on specific platforms or the amount of time spent online. However, this study aimed to delve deeper into the various ways people engage with social media, regardless of the platform.
The study analyzed three types of social media use: passive (exclusive browsing of others’ content), active non-social (posting own content without engaging with others), and active social (posting own content and interacting with others’ posts).
The findings revealed that increased passive social media use was associated with higher levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. On the other hand, creating and sharing content without direct interaction (active non-social) had a positive impact on stress levels.
Zoe Taylor, who conducted the study as a student at BU, notes, “The manner in which users engage with social media significantly affects their psychological wellbeing. Passive users tend to experience greater feelings of loneliness, leading to increased psychological distress.”
Dr. Panourgia adds, “Passive social media use lacks communication and self-disclosure opportunities, which are known to promote connectedness and social support. Consequently, users may feel isolated and excluded, resulting in heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.”
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