The Association Between Instagram Use And Social Anxiety In Young Adults: A Survey-Based Study In Saudi Arabia
Abstract
Background: The past decade witnessed a rapid growth in social media usage, particularly
among young adults. In Saudi Arabia, the use of visual media platforms like Instagram is gaining
more popularity. Previous studies have examined the interaction between people and digital
technology, including research on the effects of engagement with social media and the shift in
communication patterns. Empirical evidence revealed both positive and negative effects of social
media on its users, with negative impacts on psychological outcomes being notable. The increase
in symptoms of social anxiety is one example of a decline in mental health linked to excessive
social media use. Given that the prevalence of social anxiety in individuals under the age of 25 is
shown to be higher, it prompted many studies to investigate the relationship between the use of
social media and levels of social anxiety in younger people. When exploring the connection, the
presence of facilitating factors is considered due to its complexity. Prior research has identified
several underlying factors, including passive use, social comparison, and addictive tendencies,
especially in the context of Instagram use.
Aim: This study aims to investigate the different factors correlating Instagram use to high levels
of social anxiety among Saudi Arabian young adults.
Methods: The present study utilised a deductive approach by using a cross-sectional online
questionnaire to obtain its quantitative data. The study sample consists of 51 Saudi
undergraduate students from King Abdulaziz University. The participants self-reported by
responding to questions regarding demographics, a Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS), and Instagram
use patterns. The statistical tests performed during the inferential analysis included Spearman’s
Rho correlation, Multiple Regression, and a Mediation model.
Description
Keywords
Social Network Sites, Social Media, Instagram, Wellbeing, Social Anxiety