Can online behaviors be linked to mental health? Active versus passive social network usage on depression via envy and self-esteem

Purpose

The association between online social networking sites (SNS) and the mental health of adolescents has been a subject of investigation, yielding conflicting results in previous studies. While some findings suggest a negative correlation between SNS usage and mental health, others propose a positive link. This study aimed to reconcile these discrepancies by examining the combined impact of two types of SNS usage on depression, considering envy and self-esteem as potential mediators.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 523 participants completed a questionnaire assessing SNS usage, envy, self-esteem, and depression. The Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) approach was employed.

Findings

The results revealed distinct patterns in the relationship between SNS usage and depression based on guided theories. Specifically, passive social network usage (PSNU) was found to be positively linked to depression through both envy and self-esteem, aligning with the Social Comparison Theory. On the other hand, active social network usage (ASNU), guided by the Social Information Processing Theory, exhibited a negative link to depression, mediated only by self-esteem.

Originality/value

These findings suggest that PSNU may exert a more prevalent and dominant association with depression than ASNU. Consequently, recognizing the distinct patterns of SNS usage is essential for understanding their effects on mental health. Integrating both ASNU and PSNU into the same model clarified their unique contributions to mental health through multiple mediators (envy and self-esteem). The study discusses limitations and implications, shedding light on the nuanced relationship.