A number of studies have already identified a link between the development of depression and social media use. Whether personality traits also played a role remained unclear. But that doesn’t seem to be the case, a research team reports in the journal “Journal of Affective Disorders Reports”: The scientists found strong associations between depression and the use of social media across all personality traits. This means that certain properties may strengthen or weaken the connection, but it always exists regardless. For example, those who tended to be neurotic and spent more than five hours a day on social media were about twice as likely to become ill as those without this trait.
The scientists cite as possible reasons that social media tempt people to compare themselves with others. This can be problematic if it increases negative feelings about yourself and others. Preoccupation with predominantly negative content can also intensify such feelings. In addition, increased use of social media can limit in-person interactions and activities outside of the home. Renae Merrill, a graduate student at the University of Arkansas, explained, “People have innate emotional needs for social connection and understanding. Connecting with people virtually can increase the risk of miscommunication or misperception, leading to relationship difficulties and a possible risk of developing mental health problems.”
The team evaluated data from more than 1,000 adults between the ages of 18 and 30 collected at the University of Pittsburgh in 2018. Personality traits assessed were openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness and neuroticism.
Which: DOI 10.1016/j.jadr.2022.100385