Social Media and Psychological Well-Being of Youth: Mechanisms and Protective and Risk Conditions

Rafadi Khan Khayru; Fayola Issalillah

Authors

Rafadi Khan Khayru Universitas Sunan Giri Surabaya
Fayola Issalillah Universitas Sunan Giri Surabaya

Keywords:

social media, mental health, youth, risk factors, protective factors, digital literacy, psychological well-being

Abstract

Social media has become an integral part of young people’s lives, yet its relationship with mental health remains a subject of debate. This study aims to identify the psychological and social mechanisms linking social media use to mental health status and to map the conditions that distinguish social media as a protective or risk factor. This systematic literature review analyzes literature from various disciplines using qualitative thematic analysis. The findings reveal nine key mechanisms, including social comparison, the dopamine reward cycle, sleep disturbances, and self-concept distortion. Social media becomes a risk factor when combined with individual vulnerabilities, a lack of real-world support, low digital literacy, and unlimited passive use. Conversely, social media acts as a protective factor when accompanied by good digital literacy, warm family relationships, scheduled rest, and proactive activities. There is no universal safe duration, but usage exceeding three hours per day is negatively correlated with well-being. Theoretical implications offer an ecological model integrating individual, relational, and platform factors. Practical implications include recommendations for digital literacy education, family policies, and platform accountability.

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