Work

Workplace Mental Health and Social Media Addictive Behaviours: The Application of Mattering Theory

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: PurposeThe present study examined associations between adjustment and job satisfaction and multiple dimensions of mattering-including general mattering, mattering at work, anti-mattering experiences, and fears of not mattering-among working adults. A secondary, exploratory aim was to examine whether mattering-related outcomes differed as a function of personal COVID-19 infection history.MethodA cross-sectional study was conducted with 60 employees working primarily from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants completed self-report measures assessing mattering, well-being, depression, social media addiction, and job satisfaction.ResultsGeneral mattering was positively associated with work mattering and affective job satisfaction, whereas anti-mattering was negatively associated with work mattering, well-being, and affective job satisfaction. Well-being was positively related to both work mattering and affective job satisfaction, supporting the protective role of perceived significance in the workplace. Social media addiction was positively correlated with non-mattering and depression, suggesting that diminished perceptions of mattering may be linked to maladaptive online behaviors and poorer mental health. Exploratory independent-samples t-tests indicated that individuals with a history of COVID-19 infection reported lower general mattering, work mattering, and affective job satisfaction, and higher anti-mattering, compared with those without infection.ConclusionThe findings highlight the importance of mattering as a resource for employee well-being and job satisfaction. Experiences of anti-mattering were associated with poorer mental health and greater vulnerability to problematic social media use. Exploratory differences linked to COVID-19 infection history suggest pandemic-related stressors may negatively influence employees' sense of value and satisfaction. These results underscore the need for organizational practices that foster employees' sense of mattering, particularly during periods of disruption.

Source: Canadian Journal of Nursing Research

Authors: Tsorng-Yeh Lee, Chang Su, Gordon L. Flett

Institutions: York University, Brandon University

Language: English

Topic: Job Satisfaction and Organizational Behavior

Subfield: Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,150

Funder: York University