Wellness and Social Media
Document Type
Event
Department
Social Work
Abstract
The existing research and data regarding social media use, wellness, and mental health outcomes provides mixed reviews. Numerous studies depict social media use as being strongly associated with adverse mental health impacts, however, promising data also shows positive outcomes related to identifying protective factors, maintaining social connection in light of pandemic related isolation, and increasing social capital. When examining the literature, two primary research questions emerged. First, what protective factors exist for negating adverse mental health outcomes from social media use? Additionally, what strategies or skills are effective in mitigating negative social media-related mental health outcomes? This project will survey a non-random convenience sample of the population of current University of Southern Maine students. An online survey will be distributed to students inquiring about social media habits and wellness strategies; survey response data will be analyzed to identify trends and themes. The authors hope to gain further insight into what protective factors exist related to social media use and mental health, as well as what individuals are actively doing to prevent negative outcomes.
Wellness and Social Media
The existing research and data regarding social media use, wellness, and mental health outcomes provides mixed reviews. Numerous studies depict social media use as being strongly associated with adverse mental health impacts, however, promising data also shows positive outcomes related to identifying protective factors, maintaining social connection in light of pandemic related isolation, and increasing social capital. When examining the literature, two primary research questions emerged. First, what protective factors exist for negating adverse mental health outcomes from social media use? Additionally, what strategies or skills are effective in mitigating negative social media-related mental health outcomes? This project will survey a non-random convenience sample of the population of current University of Southern Maine students. An online survey will be distributed to students inquiring about social media habits and wellness strategies; survey response data will be analyzed to identify trends and themes. The authors hope to gain further insight into what protective factors exist related to social media use and mental health, as well as what individuals are actively doing to prevent negative outcomes.
