A SURVEY-BASED STUDY OF SOCIAL MEDIA USE AND LONELINESS AMONG YOUNG ADULTS

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between social media use and loneliness among young adults aged 18-25. A cross-sectional survey design was employed to collect data from 450 participants using validated instruments, including the UCLA Loneliness Scale and a modified Social Media Use Questionnaire. Statistical analysis using SPSS revealed a significant positive correlation between problematic social media use and loneliness levels (r = .342, p < .001). Multiple regression analysis indicated that passive social media consumption and social comparison behaviors were significant predictors of loneliness, explaining 23.6% of the variance in loneliness scores. Active engagement and meaningful social connections through social media platforms showed protective effects against loneliness. The findings suggest that the quality and nature of social media interactions, rather than mere usage frequency, are crucial determinants of psychological well-being among young adults. These results have important implications for mental health interventions and digital literacy programs targeting this demographic.