Socially Integrative Social Media Use and Subjective Well-Being Among Generation Z: The Mediating Roles of Bonding and Bridging Social Capital
Abstract
The rapid growth of social media platforms has significantly changed how Generation Z (born 1997-2012) interacts socially, prompting important questions about how digital communication affects psychological health and Subjective Well-Being (SWB). While research has explored general social media use and well-being, the specific ways in which socially integrative social media use (SISMU), intentional activities aimed at maintaining and strengthening relationships, affects SWB remain poorly understood. Research Problem: The literature shows mixed results regarding social media use and well-being, partly because it is often viewed as a single, uniform behaviour. Additionally, the mediating roles of social capital dimensions, such as bonding social capital (BSC) and bridging social capital (BRSC), which could connect SISMU to SWB, have received limited empirical attention, especially among Generation Z. Objective: This study examines how SISMU influences SWB among Generation Z, focusing on the mediating effects of BSC and BRSC. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted, gathering data from 512 Generation Z individuals aged 18–27 through convenience and snowball sampling. The survey used validated scales adapted from previous studies. Data analysis was performed with Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS- SEM) using Smart PLS 4. 0. Key Findings: The results show that SISMU has a positive and significant impact on SWB (β = 0. 214, p <. .001), BSC (β = 0. 432, p <. .001), and BRSC (β = 0. 389, p <. .001). Both BSC (β = 0. 318, p <. .001) and BRSC (β = 0. 267, p <. .001) significantly predict SWB. Mediation analysis reveals that BSC and BRSC partially mediate the relationship between SISMU and SWB. Theoretical Contribution: The study advances Social Capital Theory and Uses and Gratifications Theory by showing that both BSC and BRSC serve as dual pathways that mediate the effect of socially engaging digital behaviour on well-being. Practical Implications: The findings provide practical insights for universities, mental health professionals, and social media platform developers aiming to create digital environments that promote well- being among young adults.