Social Media Addiction: The usage of Social Media Platforms and its Relationship with Self-Esteem and Depression

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Volume 6 Issue 1, 2025

Author(s):

Noreen Jaffri
Bahria University, Karachi
noreenjaffri.ipp@bahria.edu.pk

Tehmina Jabeen (Corresponding Author)
Bahria University, Karachi
tehminajabeen.ipp@bahria.edu.pk

Abstract Social media is widely used by people of all ages across the globe. It serves as a powerful medium for communication and interaction, offering accessibility at any time and with anyone. While its usage provides several benefits, it also poses notable risks, particularly in relation to mental health. In light of this, the present research was designed to investigate the relationship between social media usage, self-esteem, and depression. A quantitative survey-based approach was employed, involving N = 202 participants aged 19–24 years, recruited through convenience sampling from various universities in Karachi, Pakistan. The sample size was calculated using scientific calculator (A-Priori). Standardized self-esteem and depression measures were used to collect data which was then analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS version 23. Findings revealed an insignificant gender difference between social media usage with Instagram to be the most frequently used platform among both genders. Moreover, there seemed to be significant positive relationship between social media usage and depression (p<0.001), and an inverse relationship between social media usage and self-esteem (p<.001). The findings suggest implementation of targeted interventions including psychoeducation, digital hygiene training, and counseling services to reduce associated risk of psychological disturbances such as depression and concerns related to self-esteem among young population.
Keywords Mental health, social media, Self-esteem, Depression, Psychological issues
Year 2025
Volume 6
Issue 1
Type Research paper, manuscript, article
Recognized by Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, HEC
Category "Y"
Journal Name ILMA Journal of Social Sciences & Economics
Publisher Name ILMA University
Jel Classification -
DOI
ISSN no (E, Electronic) 2790-5896
ISSN no (P, Print) 2709-2232
Country Pakistan
City Karachi
Institution Type University
Journal Type Open Access
Manuscript Processing Blind Peer Reviewed
Format PDF
Paper Link http://ijsse.ilmauniversity.edu.pk/arc/Vol6./pdf/v1/6.pdf