Why the research?
Recently I concluded my research titled “The Impact of Social Media Addiction on Young Adults in North Macedonia”. This analysis, as part of wider academic research in psychology of social media, offers new insights into the increasing health concern of social media addiction among youngsters in Macedonia.
What is the Key Focus of the Research?
The research investigates the effects of excessive social media use on the young people and it included some 250 young participants. It implemented the Social Networking Addiction Scale (SNAS) by M.G. Shahnawaz and Usama Rehman while the survey was distributed online. The target population for this research was young adults, identified as a highly active and most vulnerable group concerning social media's effects.
Key Findings
The study reveals that a considerable portion of young adults exhibit signs of social media addiction.
- A very high 65% of respondents confirmed addiction according to the Social Networking Addiction Scale, with an average Addiction Index of approximately 25% or 109 points on SNAS scale (calculated from test scores ranging 84-144). This indicates a moderate type of addiction, though 10-12% registered a high addiction index (above 75% on the scale, or over 128 points on this scale).
- Nearly half (49.1%) of respondents reported being distracted by social media while working or studying, with 49.9% admitting to often check for updates during these tasks, significantly affecting their productivity and cognitive activity.
- More than half (53.3%) of participants use social media as a coping tool when they are upset, and 43.2% find it helps them feel relaxed. This highlights a very concerning shift in emotional regulation and managing by youngsters, potentially replacing healthier coping options with online tools.
- A significant 32% of respondents experience sadness when unable to use social media, with an additional 18% reporting other negative reactions. Also, 24.5% admit feeling frustration and 24% feel restlessness when offline or not having enough time for social media. This indicates an increase of negative emotions related to inability to use social media for at least a third of respondents.
- 34% of young adults admitted skipping sleep in favor of social media. Moreover, 33.9% find it difficult to cut down their social media usage, showing addiction tendencies and a struggle with self-managing.
- The study confirms that social media contributes to feelings of anxiety, and low self-esteem due to constant exposure to idealized online portrayals and social comparison.
The addictive nature of social media is deeply rooted in algorithm-driven procedures that reinforce certain usage models. The constant flow of likes, comments, and notifications triggers the release of dopamine, creating feedback cycles that often cause dependence from social media. The "fear of missing out" (FOMO) also compels users to stay connected. The research also points out how social media can lead to isolation and loneliness by replacing meaningful in-person interactions with superficial virtual contacts. This is further strengthen by "context collapse" in online interactions, where users cannot be certain how their message will be understood or who is listening to them, making it difficult to manage online relationships.
Recommendations for Healthier Digital Future
Recognizing social media addiction as a raising health concern, the study also emphasizes these key recommendations:
- Digital Literacy Programs: Integrating holistic programs in schools to educate about psychological impacts, platform design, and self-control strategies.
- Digital Detox Activities: Promoting regular breaks, scheduling tech-free times, and encouraging a balance between online and offline life.
- Support Groups and Professional Help: Offering specialized therapy services like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based interventions, alongside support groups for shared experiences and coping strategies.
- Parental and Institutional Guidance: Encouraging parents and educators to set boundaries, foster open communication, and lead by example.
- Promotion of Alternate Activities: Encouraging engagement in offline hobbies like sports, volunteering, and arts to reduce screen time and improve overall well-being.
- Establishing Usage Boundaries: Individuals setting clear daily limits and scheduled time off, potentially using tracking applications.
- Mindful Usage: Encouraging users to be intentional about their social media use, considering what they want to achieve before logging in.
At the end we can note that social media addiction goes beyond the practice of excessive screen time; it deeply impacts focus, emotional condition, sleep quality, and self-esteem of many young people. To address this complex issue a collective effort involving individuals, families, schools, mental health professionals, and lawmakers is highly needed. By promoting responsible use, making more easy access to mental health support, and creating stronger offline connections, the academic community, institutions and the civic sector can jointly work towards a healthier digital future for the younger generations.
Author: Nida Asan, Psychologist and Clinical Therapist.