Social Network Sites And The Users’ Wellbeing

Social networking sites (SNSs) usage has impacted people’s well-being dimensions, such as social relationships, social capital, self-esteem, and mental health. By reviewing forty academic papers in this domain, this study identified several effects of SNSs on the users’ well-being, with an emphasis on the SNS usage patterns and its impacts on different age groups. The results of this systematic literature review indicate that in adolescents, SNSs facilitate identity experimentation, gaining social capital, and self-disclosure; although the risk of isolation and depression due to cyberbullying could be an issue.
SNS usage can help emerging adults maintain their intimate relationships and help older adults compensate for their loss of social connections due to life-course transitions and ageing. They can also utilise SNSs as a social bonding tool to keep in touch with both family and friends and thereby have a buffer against stressors. Overall, appropriate usage of SNSs can enhance people’s well-being.