Problematic social media use and life satisfaction in emerging adults: a moderated mediation model with social media social comparison as a mediator and gratitude as a moderator

Abstract

The rising prevalence of social media adoption among Emerging Adults has raised concerns over its impact on one’s well-being. This study investigated the relationship between Problematic Social Media Use (PSMU) and Satisfaction with Life (SWL), with Social Media Social Comparison (SMSC) as the mediator and Gratitude as a moderator. Self-report questionnaire was distributed online via different social media platforms and groups. A total of 151 Emerging Adults aged 18-25 participated in the cross-sectional study. Correlation analyses were conducted, followed by moderated mediation analysis using PROCESS Macro Model 7 with bootstrapping. Results indicated that PSMU was positively correlated with SMSC (r=.40, p<0.001) but was not significantly associated with SWL (r=.05, p=0.57). SMSC did not mediate the relationship between PSMU and SWL (Boot Effect=.00, Boot SE=0.42, Boot 95% CI=[–.08, .09]), and Gratitude did not moderate the association between PSMU and SMSC (Boot Index=.00, Boot SE=.00, Boot 95% CI=[–.0056, .035]). However, a significant negative correlation between Gratitude and PSMU (r=-.35, p<0.001) was observed.