An Evaluative Study on the Impact of Mobile Devices and Social Media Sites on Students' Mental Health.

Autor: Alam, Aftab, Baber, Md Raghib, Raza, Md Akhtar, Raza, Md Mousuf, Alam, Md Firoz
Zdroj: African Journal of Biomedical Research; Sep2024, Vol. 27 Issue 3, p724-732, 9p
Abstrakt: The article explores the growing use of mobile devices and social media among students and their repercussions on their mental health. This paper reviews numerous psychological theories, such as Social Comparison Theory, Cognitive Behavioural Theory, and Uses and Gratifications Theory, detailing the interconnecting dynamics between the influence of usage of social media and the outcomes related to mental health in students. Since then, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat have become the central podium of communication as well as a platform for many resources that help students in their education. However, on the flip side, highly raised utilization of these applications has been proven to result in increased anxiety, depression, and loss of self-esteem, especially in social comparison, Fear of missing out and cyberbullying. The article also gives a pointer on mobile addiction that affects sleep and, most important, academic performance and social relations among affected students. Some of the studies referenced here associate heavy use of social media with mental illnesses, but some also report positive results, including social support and affective connection. Overuse is still a critical determinant of positive use. This will create an initiative involving the students, parents, teachers and social media involved such that the said risks can be alleviated. That is why the proper understanding of the dual aspect of mobile and social media use will better help all stakeholders promote healthier digital habits and protect the well-being of students' mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Databáze: Complementary Index