Work

An experimental study on the impact of social media images on users’ online social anxiety in China

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: In digital era, people encounter numerous images while using social media. This study aims to explore the impact of viewing portrait-focused social media images on users’ upward social comparison and online social anxiety. An online experiment was conducted on the Chinese internet, collecting data from volunteer participants ( N = 479). The results indicate that portrait-focused images, compared to object-focused images, lead to higher online social anxiety among social media users. This effect is mediated by upward social comparison. Additionally, male participants scored higher than females on both upward social comparison and online social anxiety. However, moderation analysis revealed that gender differences did not significantly moderate the overall pathway. The findings provide strategies for social media platforms to alleviate online social anxiety among their users and underscore the importance of considering users’ mental well-being.

Source: Discover Psychology

DOI: 10.1007/s44202-025-00337-4

Author: Zhaohao Jia

Institution: Guangdong University of Foreign Studies

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: $1,590