Problematic social media use

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Problematic social media use[1] refers to the excessive and often uncontrollable use of social media[4] platforms, which can result in negative physical and psychological health outcomes. This behavior is known to be associated with a range of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, and it often correlates with eating disorders. Much like other addictive behaviors, excessive social media usage is driven by various factors including fear of missing out[2], the desire for information, and coping with stress. The design elements of social media platforms and personalization[3] of content also contribute to addictive behaviors. Research shows that limiting social media use can positively impact well-being and decrease symptoms of loneliness and depression. However, the influence of problematic social media use varies across different age groups and is influenced by factors such as demographics and personality traits. Ongoing research is seeking to understand the neurobiological risk factors and treatment options for social media addiction.

Terms definitions
1. Problematic social media use ( Problematic social media use )
1 Problematic social media use refers to the excessive and compulsive use of social media platforms that negatively impacts an individual's life. This condition can manifest as a preoccupation with these platforms, leading to adverse psychological and physiological effects such as anxiety, depression, and stress, particularly among young people. The issue extends to influencing mental health and well-being, with a notable connection between cyberbullying and depression. The addictive nature of social media use is often attributed to certain design choices made by developers to maximize user engagement. Social media addiction can be treated by identifying and addressing these addictive behaviors, with studies suggesting a reduction in usage can significantly improve well-being. Finally, certain demographic and personality factors, such as age and narcissistic tendencies, can influence the likelihood of problematic social media use.
2 Problematic social media use refers to the excessive and often uncontrollable use of social media platforms, which can result in negative physical and psychological health outcomes. This behavior is known to be associated with a range of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, and it often correlates with eating disorders. Much like other addictive behaviors, excessive social media usage is driven by various factors including fear of missing out, the desire for information, and coping with stress. The design elements of social media platforms and personalization of content also contribute to addictive behaviors. Research shows that limiting social media use can positively impact well-being and decrease symptoms of loneliness and depression. However, the influence of problematic social media use varies across different age groups and is influenced by factors such as demographics and personality traits. Ongoing research is seeking to understand the neurobiological risk factors and treatment options for social media addiction.
2. fear of missing out. "Fear of Missing Out" or FOMO is a widely recognized term that describes the anxiety or apprehension one might feel about missing out on experiences or events others are participating in. This term, popularized by Patrick J. McGinnis and Dr. Dan Herman, has evolved significantly with the rise of mobile phones and social media platforms. FOMO can manifest in various ways, such as stress, low self-esteem, increased screen time, and negative impacts on personal well-being. It's also been identified in numerous contexts like social media usage, video gaming, and investing. FOMO has significant implications in marketing strategies, cultural norms, and even linguistics, with different variations of the term being used globally. Studies on FOMO have linked it to mental health issues like anxiety and depression, and it plays a significant role in shaping societal behaviors and norms, particularly in the digital realm. Various coping strategies have been proposed to manage FOMO, including mindfulness and setting personal boundaries.

Experts from many different fields have conducted research and held debates about how using social media affects mental health. Research suggests that mental health issues arising from social media use affect women more than men and vary according to the particular social media platform used, although it does affect every age and gender demographic in different ways. Psychological or behavioural dependence on social media platforms can result in significant negative functions in individuals' daily lives. Studies show there are several negative effects that social media can have on individuals' mental health and overall well-being. While researchers have attempted to examine why and how social media is problematic, they still struggle to develop evidence-based recommendations on how they would go about offering potential solutions to this issue. Because social media is constantly evolving, researchers also struggle with whether the disorder of problematic social media use would be considered a separate clinical entity or a manifestation of underlying psychiatric disorders. These disorders can be diagnosed when an individual engages in online content/conversations rather than pursuing other interests.

Problematic social media use
Other namesSocial media addiction, social media obsession, social media overuse
SpecialtyPsychiatry, psychology
SymptomsProblematic smartphone use, internet addiction disorder
Risk factorsLower socioeconomic status, female sex
PreventionParental engagement and support
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