The Influence of Social Media Usage on Mental Health among European Adolescents
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47672/ejt.1856Keywords:
Social Media, Mental Health, European AdolescentsAbstract
Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the influence of social media usage on mental health among European adolescents.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: A comprehensive study on the influence of social media usage on mental health among European adolescents has revealed several key findings. The research, conducted across multiple European countries, indicates a significant correlation between excessive social media engagement and various mental health issues. Notably, prolonged use of platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat has been associated with higher levels of depression, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness among adolescents. Furthermore, the study highlights the role of cyberbullying and comparison-induced stress as significant factors contributing to these negative mental health outcomes. Interestingly, gender differences were observed, with females reporting higher levels of emotional distress compared to males.
Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social comparison theory, uses and gratifications theory and social cognitive theory may be use to anchor future studies on assessing the influence of social media usage on mental health among European adolescents. Educational institutions, community organizations, and mental health professionals should collaborate to develop and implement programs aimed at promoting digital literacy and resilience among European adolescents. Policymakers should implement evidence-based policies that address the complex interplay between social media usage and adolescent mental health.
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