Negative experiences on social media related to higher odds of feeling lonely – ScienceDaily

The findings build on an award-winning research conducted by the center in 2017, indicating that increased use of social media was badociated with an increased sense of loneliness.

"Social media apparently aims to connect people, so it's surprising and interesting that our surveys reveal a link between social media and loneliness," said lead author Brian Primack, MD, Ph.D. ., Director of MTH Pitt and Dean of Pitt College Specialized. "Perceived social isolation, synonymous with loneliness, is badociated with poor health outcomes, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and depression." Social media is so ubiquitous better understand why this is happening and how we can help people navigate social media without so much negative consequences. "

Primack and his team interviewed 1,188 students aged 18 to 30 at the University of West Virginia about their use of social media, the extent to which their experiences were positive or negative, and their degree of loneliness. The authors looked at these perceptions of social media interactions, regardless of the combination of platforms used by students.

For every 10% increase in negative experiences on social networks, participants reported a 13% increase in feelings of loneliness. However, for every 10% increase in positive experiences on social media, participants did not report any statistically significant change in the feeling of loneliness.

It's hard to know if people who are lonely are looking for or attracting negative experiences on social networks, or if they are experiencing negative experiences on social networks that lead to perceived isolation, said author Jaime Sidani , Ph.D., also badistant director. from MTH of Pitt.

"People tend to place more emphasis on negative experiences and traits than positives, which can be particularly relevant when it comes to social media." For example, positive experiences on the media may be badociated with ephemeral positive reinforcement, negative experiences – such as the arguments of public social media – can quickly escalate and leave a lasting and potentially traumatic impression, "Sidani said. "It's also possible that socially isolated people are turning to social media, which involves negative interactions – it's probably a mix of both."

Although the research team recommends continuing studies to explain and replicate their research, the findings are strong enough to warrant immediate intervention efforts to reduce the feelings of loneliness badociated with the use social media.

"Health practitioners can encourage the public to be more aware and more reflective about their online experiences, thus interrupting a potential cycle of negative experiences and loneliness," said Primack. "It can be helpful to encourage awareness and education about the positive and negative experiences of social media."

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