Work

A meta-analysis on the relationship between the use of electronic media and psychological well-being

Year: 2024

Type: review

Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis

Abstract: The effect of digital media use on psychological well-being has been debated among scholars and the public for a long time. This study investigates the relationship between various types of media use and psychological well-being. It was proposed that communication media such as phone calls, texting, and instant messaging positively correlate with well-being. In contrast, the usage of social network sites (SNSs) and online gaming would be negatively correlated. To test this hypothesis, we conducted a meta-analysis of 292 studies. The meta-analysis revealed a positive correlation between phone calls and psychological well-being and a negative correlation between online gaming and psychological well-being. However, the overall correlations between digital media use and well-being were weak. Furthermore, the impact of digital media on well-being was influenced by how technology was utilized. For example, using SNSs for entertainment was linked to better well-being, whereas self-presentation and content consumption on SNSs were correlated to poorer well-being.

Source: Emerging Trends in Drugs Addictions and Health

DOI: 10.1016/j.etdah.2024.100162

Authors: Dong Liu, Roy F Baumeister, Chia-Chen Yang

Institutions: Renmin University of China, The University of Queensland, Oklahoma State University

Language: English

Topic: Impact of Technology on Adolescents

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,000