Relating Addict: Topic: The Rise of Social Media-Induced Loneliness and Isolation

Social Science Lens Analysis

I aim to examine the rise of social media-induced loneliness and isolation through a social science lens. Previously focusing on cultural and psychological impacts, I will now explore societal factors contributing to this phenomenon. Twenge and colleagues (2019) highlight a significant decline in in-person social interaction among i Gen adolescents across various activities. While digital media has concurrently increased, correlation does not always equate to causation.

Societal Factors influencing this trend.

Some societal factors influencing this trend include:

The university transition: Students may find social media more accessible than in-person connections (Thomas et al., 2019).
Rising living costs: Financial pressures reduce social outings, particularly among young adults (Ethical Marketing News, 2024).
Job insecurity and unemployment: Economic hardships can lead to social withdrawal and increased reliance on social media. Probst and colleagues (2018) reveal to us that there is a negative impact of economic stressors on health and well-being.
Algorithmic manipulation: Social media platforms prioritize engagement over well-being, increasing screen time and potential harm (Qiu, 2021)

A social science lens reveals the complex interplay between individual experiences and broader societal structures. Loneliness and isolation are not solely personal issues but are deeply rooted in societal conditions.

Case Studies: A Dual Perspective

Alex: A Societal Lens Alex, a college student, exemplifies the impact of societal factors. The university transition, financial constraints, and algorithmic manipulation contribute to their isolation.
Alex: A Humanities Lens From a humanities perspective, Alex’s experience mirror's classic themes of alimentation, where technology replaces authentic human connection. The carefully curated world of social media creates unrealistic expectations, exacerbating feelings of inadequacy.

Conclusion – Combining the Lenses

By examining Alex’s situation through both social science and humanities lenses, we gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex factors contributing to social media-induced loneliness and isolation.

The social science lens highlights the role of societal structures, such as economic inequality and technological design, in shaping these experiences. This perspective suggests potential solutions at the systemic level, including policies that address affordability and accessibility to social activities, as well as regulations for social media platforms.

The humanities lens offers insights into the psychological and cultural dimensions of the issue. By understanding the human experience of isolation and the cultural narratives surrounding social media, we can develop targeted interventions, such as mental health support programs and media literacy initiatives. Ultimately, addressing social media-induced loneliness requires a multifaceted approach as does any rising issue of concern. This

approach must consider individual well-being and societal changes. By combining these perspectives, we can develop effective strategies to foster healthier relationships between individuals and technology.

References

Cost of living crisis causing loneliness epidemic for young people | Ethical Marketing News. (2024, February 5). https://ethicalmarketingnews.com/cost-of-living-crisis-causing-loneliness-epidemic-for-young-people
Probst, T. M., Sinclair, R. R., Sears, L. E., Gailey, N. J., Black, K. J., & Cheung, J. H. (2018). Economic stress and well-being: Does population health context matter? Journal of Applied Psychology, 103(9), 959–979. https://doi-org.ezproxy.snhu.edu/10.1037/apl0000309
Qiu, T. (2021, September 14). A Psychiatrist’s Perspective on Social Media Algorithms and Mental Health. Stanford HAI; Stanford University. https://hai.stanford.edu/news/psychiatrists-perspective-social-media-algorithms-and-mental-health
Thomas, L., Orme, E., & Kerrigan, F. (2019). Student loneliness: The role of social media through life transitions. Computers & Education, 146(0360-1315), 103754. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2019.103754‌
Twenge, J. M., Spitzberg, B. H., & Campbell, W. K. (2019). Less in-person social interaction with peers among U.S. Adolescents in the 21st century and links to loneliness. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships. https://doi.org/10.1177/0265407519836170