Active and Passive Social Media Use Contributes to Loneliness: Study

New Delhi: A new study from Baylor University, published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, suggests that both passive and active social media use contribute to the increasing feelings of loneliness over time. Despite being designed to foster connection, social media platforms may, in fact, be fueling what researchers call an "epidemic of loneliness."

The study explored how different types of social media engagement impact loneliness and revealed that passive use—such as scrolling through feeds without interaction—predictably increases feelings of isolation. However, even active participation, including posting and engaging with others, was linked to heightened loneliness, challenging the assumption that interaction on social platforms can replace real-world connections.

Lead researcher James A. Roberts emphasized the complexity of social media’s impact on mental well-being. While these platforms provide access to online communities, the study conducted by the authors suggests that digital interactions may not effectively satisfy the social needs that face-to-face communication fulfills. Instead of reducing loneliness, extensive social media use—whether active or passive—may actually intensify it.

The research also identified that there is a cyclical relationship between loneliness and social media use. People who feel lonely often turn to social media in an attempt to alleviate their isolation, but this reliance may only reinforce their loneliness. Roberts noted that this creates a continuous feedback loop, where social media use appears to "fan the flames" rather than provide relief.

These findings highlight the need for deeper exploration into the psychological effects of digital interactions. The study underscores the importance of prioritizing in-person connections for emotional well-being and calls for future research to inform policies and guidelines that promote healthier social media habits.

As the conversation around social media and mental health grows, this study provides critical insights into how digital habits shape emotional well-being, reinforcing the need for balance between online engagement and real-world social interactions.