Social comparisons, social media addiction, and social interaction: An examination of specific social media behaviors related to major depressive disorder in a millennial population

TLDR

Social media use has been linked to increased depressive symptoms among individuals with depression. This study aimed to identify specific social media behaviors associated with major depressive disorder in a millennial sample. A survey of 504 active users of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat was analyzed using univariate and multivariate methods to examine behaviors related to MDD. Five behaviors were linked to MDD: frequent comparison to better‑off others, distress over unflattering tags, infrequent co‑photo posting, following fewer than 300 Twitter accounts, and higher social media addiction scores, with negative behaviors increasing MDD likelihood.

Abstract

Abstract Although studies have shown that increases in the frequency of social media use may be associated with increases in depressive symptoms of individuals with depression, the current study aimed to identify specific social media behaviors related to major depressive disorder (MDD). Millions ( N = 504) who actively use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and/or Snapchat participated in an online survey assessing major depression and specific social media behaviors. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify specific social media behaviors associated with the presence of MDD. The results identified five key social media factors associated with MDD. Individuals who were more likely to compare themselves to others better off than they were ( p = 0.005), those who indicated that they would be more bothered by being tagged in unflattering pictures ( p = 0.011), and those less likely to post pictures of themselves along with other people ( p = 0.015) were more likely to meet the criteria for MDD. Participants following 300 + Twitter accounts were less likely to have MDD ( p = 0.041), and those with higher scores on the Social Media Addiction scale were significantly more likely to meet the criteria for MDD ( p = 0.031). Participating in negative social media behaviors is associated with a higher likelihood of having MDD. Research and clinical implications are considered.