Social media use and social connectedness among adolescents in the United Kingdom: a qualitative exploration of displacement and stimulation
Open accessAbstract
Background: Connectedness to family and peers is a key determinant of adolescent mental health. Existing research examining associations between social media use and social connectedness has been largely quantitative and has focused primarily on loneliness, or on specific aspects of peer relationships. In this qualitative study we use the displacement hypothesis and the stimulation hypothesis as competing theoretical lenses through which we examine the complex relationship between social media use and feelings of connectedness to family and peers. Methods: In-depth paired and individual interviews were conducted with twenty-four 13–14-year-olds in two inner-city English secondary schools. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, coded and thematically analysed. Results: Analysis identified four themes: (i) ‘Displacement of face-to-face socialising’ (ii) ‘Social obligations’ (iii) ‘(Mis)Trust’ and (iv) ‘Personal and group identity’. Results indicated stronger support for the stimulation hypothesis than the displacement hypothesis. We found evidence of a complex set of reciprocal and circular relationships between social media use and connectedness consistent with a ‘rich-get-richer’ and a ‘poor-get-poorer’ effect for family and peer connectedness – and a ‘poor-get-richer’ effect in peer connectedness for those who find face-to-face interactions difficult. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that parents should take a measured approach to social media use, providing clear guidance, promoting trust and responsible time management, and acknowledging the role of social media in making connections. Understanding and sharing in online experiences is likely to promote social connectedness. Supporting young people to negotiate breathing space in online interactions and prioritising trust over availability in peer relationships may optimise the role of social media in promoting peer connectedness.
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Written from the paper’s full text.
TL;DR
This qualitative study used displacement and stimulation hypotheses to explore how social media use relates to family and peer connectedness among 13–14-year-olds in England. It found stronger support for stimulation than displacement, alongside complex reciprocal effects including rich-get-richer, poor-get-poorer, and poor-get-richer patterns.
Key findings
- Four themes were identified: “Displacement of face-to-face socialising,” “Social obligations,” “(Mis)Trust,” and “Personal and group identity.”
- Results indicated stronger support for the stimulation hypothesis than the displacement hypothesis, with social media often used to maintain or expand connections when face-to-face socialising was not possible.
- The authors describe a complex set of reciprocal and circular relationships, including a “rich-get-richer” and “poor-get-poorer” effect for family and peer connectedness, and a “poor-get-richer” effect in peer connectedness for those who find face-to-face interactions difficult.
- Participants also described “over-stimulation” through obligations to be available and provide positive feedback, and fear of screenshotting undermined trust and peer connectedness.
Methods
- In-depth paired and individual interviews were conducted with 24 Year 9 students aged 13–14 years (19 girls and five boys) in February–March 2020.
- Interviews took place at two inner-city English secondary schools; 13 interviews were conducted, lasting between 45 min and an hour, using a topic guide developed with a young people’s advisory board.
- Interviews were transcribed verbatim, coded in NVivo 12, and thematically analysed using an inductive, reflexive approach from a critical realist perspective.
Limitations
- The paper states the sample size was somewhat smaller than planned due to COVID-19, with boys in particular under-represented.
- The paper states participants were not selected based on how much or why they used social media, so additional patterns of social media use may exist in this age group that were not captured.
- The paper states all participants were aged 13–14 and attended inner-city secondary schools in one area of the country, so caution should be exercised in generalising findings to other populations; the text also makes evident that findings rely on self-report and that participants were not asked to provide feedback on the findings.
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Claims the paper makes
0 of 32 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged
- Findingown data
There is evidence of a complex set of reciprocal and circular relationships between social media use and connectedness consistent with a 'rich-get-richer' and a 'poor-get-poorer' effect for family and peer connectedness.
“We found evidence of a complex set of reciprocal and circular relationships between social media use and connectedness consistent with a ‘rich-get-richer’ and a ‘poor-get-poorer’ effect for family and peer connectedness – and a ‘poor-get-richer’ effect in peer connectedness for those who find face-to-face interactions difficult.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
There is a 'poor-get-richer' effect in peer connectedness for those who find face-to-face interactions difficult.
“We found evidence of a complex set of reciprocal and circular relationships between social media use and connectedness consistent with a ‘rich-get-richer’ and a ‘poor-get-poorer’ effect for family and peer connectedness – and a ‘poor-get-richer’ effect in peer connectedness for those who find face-to-face interactions difficult.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Results indicated stronger support for the stimulation hypothesis than the displacement hypothesis.
“Results indicated stronger support for the stimulation hypothesis than the displacement hypothesis.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
This trust was generally reciprocated by participants, several of whom trusted their parents or other family members to follow their social media accounts as a form of protection.
“This was generally reciprocated by participants, several whom trusted their parents or other family members to follow their social media accounts as a form of protection.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Participants' own SMU was sometimes felt to displace face-to-face social activities that promote feelings of connectedness.
“Participants’ own SMU was sometimes felt to displace face-to-face social activities that promote feelings of connectedness.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
- Findingown data
Those who were more frequent users indicated that online interactions generally replaced face-to-face out of necessity.
“However, those who were more frequent users again indicated that online interactions generally replaced face-to-face out of necessity.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Participants felt they were expected to respond immediately to social media messages.
“Participants felt they were expected to respond immediately to social media messages.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Social media was felt by some to provide opportunities for adults to demonstrate they trust young people to be responsible online, nurturing their independence.
“With adolescents in control of their own online profiles and content, social media was felt by some to provide opportunities for adults in their lives to demonstrate they trust young people to be responsible online, nurturing their independence.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Fear of data misappropriation, such as screenshotting within broader peer networks, appeared to have led to widespread underlying feelings of mistrust, undermining peer connectedness.
“However, the fear of data misappropriation, such as screenshotting within broader peer networks, appeared to have led to widespread underlying feelings of mistrust, undermining peer connectedness.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Several participants spoke of their parents or other family members following their social media accounts to keep an eye on them.
“Several participants spoke of their parents or other family members following their social media accounts to keep an eye on them.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Participants who had established a sense of mutual trust with parents also noted an appreciation for constructive guidance and boundaries to SMU.
“Participants who had established a sense of mutual trust with parents also noted an appreciation for constructive guidance and boundaries to SMU.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Across the sample, there were diverging opinions as to whether there was a difference between online and face-to-face socialising.
“Across the sample, there were diverging opinions as to whether there was a difference between online and face-to-face socialising.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
One participant portrayed parents with strict attitudes to SMU, whereby access to certain apps or activities had been banned, describing a paternal relationship defined by restrictions and lies.
“However, one participant stood out in their portrayal of parents with strict attitudes to SMU, whereby access to certain apps or activities had been banned, describing a paternal relationship defined by restrictions and lies.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Most participants reflecting on their own active use of social media made implicit reference to a social media etiquette developed by their generation, to which they either adhered or chose to ignore.
“Most participants reflecting on their own active use of social media made implicit reference to a social media etiquette developed by their generation, to which they either adhered or chose to ignore.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Rules set by parents about SMU in bed were quickly found to be beneficial by participants F4 and F5.
“This appeared particularly pertinent to night-time SMU and its potential to disrupt participants’ sleep patterns, where rules set by parents about SMU in bed were quickly found to be beneficial by participants F4 and F5.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
The dominant narrative presented social media as a vehicle through which participants' parents could demonstrate their trust that they would behave safely and responsibly.
“The dominant narrative presented social media as a vehicle through which participants’ parents could demonstrate their trust that they would behave safely and responsibly.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
SMU promoted continuity of social networks, enabling young people to stay connected with old friends from primary school, those who have moved away, and friendships formed from extracurricular activities.
“SMU also promoted continuity of social networks, enabling young people to stay ‘connected’ (F12) with old friends from primary school, those who have moved away from the area, and friendships formed from extracurricular activities (F10).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Within the sample, there were positive examples of trusting parental relationships, in which parents had provided guidance and established boundaries, then let young people use social media without excessive interference.
“Within the sample, there were positive examples of trusting parental relationships, in which parents had provided guidance and established boundaries, then let young people use social media without excessive interference (M1, F8, F10).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Others conveyed a weight of expectation to like or comment on friends' posts to avoid negative consequences to the friendship.
“However, others conveyed a weight of expectation to do so to avoid negative consequences to the friendship.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Many young people in the sample referred to most of their online interactions and relationship maintenance being with existing close friends, illustrative of a stimulation effect.
“However, many young people in our sample referred to most of their online interactions and relationship maintenance being with existing close friends, illustrative of a stimulation effect.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Elements of both displacement and stimulation were interwoven in discussions of online and offline socialising.
“Elements of both displacement and stimulation were interwoven in discussions of online and offline socialising.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Some participants found socialising through social media to be less rewarding than face-to-face, pointing to the more genuine feel to in-person interactions.
“In line with the displacement hypothesis, some found socialising through social media to be less rewarding than face-to-face, pointing particularly to the more genuine feel to in-person interactions where ‘you’ll see how they really are in person’ (F4) and can ‘gauge more’ (F6).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Failure to like or comment on pictures posted by friends was usually met with confusion, a need for justification, or conflict.
“Failure to like or comment on pictures posted by friends was usually met with confusion (‘because it’s the normal thing to do’ (F11)), a need for justification, or conflict (M4).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Those participants who demonstrated online enhanced self-disclosure appeared to do so specifically because of perceived poor social skills.
“Those participants who demonstrated online enhanced self-disclosure appeared to do so specifically because of perceived poor social skills.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Consistent with the stimulation hypothesis, participants explained benefits of communicating via social media to stay connected to family members who did not live close by, enhancing family connectedness beyond the nuclear family unit.
“Consistent with the stimulation hypothesis, participants explained the benefits of communicating via social media to stay connected to family members who did not live close by, enhancing family connectedness beyond the nuclear family unit.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
A more common perspective amongst our sample was a preference for face-to-face sharing when it came to sensitive or personal information.
“However, a more common perspective amongst our sample was a preference for face-to-face sharing when it came to sensitive or personal information.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingreasoning
For these young people, social media had created a normative environment of 'over-stimulation', which fostered feelings of stress.
“For these young people, social media had created a normative environment of ‘over-stimulation’, which fostered feelings of stress.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Using social media to share experiences - messaging, viewing online content together with friends and family, and co-producing content such as TikTok videos - appeared to foster feelings of connectedness through stimulation of a sense of belonging.
“Using social media to share experiences – messaging, viewing online content together with friends and family, and co-producing content such as TikTok videos – appeared to foster feelings of connectedness through stimulation of a sense of belonging.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
SMU stimulated feelings of social connectedness via enhancing feelings of belonging and group membership.
“SMU stimulated feelings of social connectedness via enhancing feelings of belonging and group membership.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Online social networking and microblogging enabled those with specific interests or experiences to find like-minded others and join communities without geographical constraints, thus enhancing peer connectedness.
“Online social networking and microblogging enabled those with specific interests (such as art or music) or experiences (including mental health conditions) to find like-minded others and join communities without geographical constraints, thus enhancing peer connectedness.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
SMU enabled and made salient shared experiences with existing friends and family, an important part of social group membership.
“In line with the stimulation hypothesis, SMU enabled and made salient shared experiences with existing friends and family, an important part of social group membership.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Our findings indicate that adolescents may also be motivated to turn to social media as a result of existing poor family connectedness.
“However, our findings indicate that adolescents may also be motivated to turn to social media as a result of existing poor family connectedness.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Frustrations with adults' lack of understanding of young people's SMU and overemphasis on online harms led to a perceived disconnect between generations.
“In terms of family connectedness, frustrations with adults’ lack of understanding of young people’s SMU and overemphasis on online harms led to a perceived disconnect between generations.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingcitation
We found some limited evidence in favour of the displacement hypothesis, whereby time spent using social media was felt by some participants to displace time spent socialising with family or friends face-to-face.
“We found some limited evidence in favour of the displacement hypothesis [11], whereby time spent using social media was felt by some participants to displace time spent socialising with family or friends face-to-face.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [11] Kraut R, Patterson M, Lundmark V, Kiesler S, Mukophadhyay T, Scherlis W. Internet paradox: a social technology that reduces social involvement and psychological well-being? Am Psychol. 1998 Sep;53(9):1017–31. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.53.9.1017. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Findingown data
Concerns about deception and privacy issues appeared to be at the forefront of most participants' minds as a result of their own or peers' experiences, or anxieties raised by parents.
“Concerns about deception and privacy issues appeared to be at the forefront of most participants’ minds as a result of their own or peers’ experiences, or anxieties raised by parents.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Premisecitation
Social connectedness is a key social determinant of adolescent mental health and well-being.
“Social connectedness is defined as feelings of belonging and closeness to others, as well as satisfaction with relationships and perceived support and opportunities for self-disclosure of personal information. It comprises different domains (peer, school, family and community/ neighbourhood) and is a key social determinant of adolescent mental health and well-being [1–3].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites [1] Viner RM, Ozer EM, Denny S, Marmot M, Resnick M, Fatusi A, et al. Adolescence and the social determinants of health. Lancet. 2012 Apr 28;379(9826):1641–52. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(12)60149-4. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [2] Jose PE, Ryan N, Pryor J. Does social connectedness promote a greater sense of well-being in adolescence over time? J Res Adolesc. 2012 Jun;22(2):235–51. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1532-7795.2012.00783.x. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [3] McLoughlin LT, Spears BA, Taddeo CM, Hermens DF. Remaining connected in the face of cyberbullying: why social connectedness is important for mental health. Psychol Sch. 2019;56(6):945–58. https://doi.org/10.1002/pits.22232. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Premisecitation
Social media use may simultaneously enhance and undermine social connectedness in adolescence through competing processes of stimulation and displacement.
“Through these competing processes of stimulation and displacement, SMU may simultaneously enhance and undermine social connectedness in adolescence [9].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [9] Allen KA, Ryan T, Gray DL, McInerney DM, Waters L. Social media use and social connectedness in adolescents: the positives and the potential pitfalls. The Educational and Developmental Psychologist. 2014 Jul;31(1):18–31. https://doi.org/10.1017/edp.2014.2. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Rests on an assumption: The displacement and stimulation hypotheses, developed for internet use, are applicable to social media use.
- Interpretationcitation
Family connectedness has the potential to mitigate well-documented negative effects of night-time SMU on sleep.
“Family connectedness therefore has the potential to mitigate well-documented negative effects of night-time SMU on sleep [14].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [14] Scott H, Woods HC. Understanding links between social media use, sleep and mental health: recent progress and current challenges. Current Sleep Medicine Reports. 2019 Sep;5(3):141–9. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40675-019-00148-9. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationown data
More frequently, references to family connectedness and screen-time suggested increased SMU was a result rather than a cause of poor connectedness.
“More frequently however, references to family connectedness and screen-time suggested increased SMU was a result rather than a cause of poor connectedness.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationown data
What social media is used for may influence whether it is perceived by the user to be displacing time spent with peers.
“What social media is used for may influence whether it is perceived by the user to be displacing time spent with peers.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationown data
The dominant narratives of mutual trust developing and being played out through parents' navigation of young people's SMU demonstrated the potential for stimulation of family connectedness.
“The dominant narratives of mutual trust developing and being played out through parents’ navigation of young people’s SMU demonstrated the potential for stimulation of family connectedness.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationown data
Rather than weak ties of vast online networks suggested by the displacement hypothesis, these were presented as close friendships whose enduring existence was stimulated by SMU in the absence of opportunities for offline interaction.
“Rather than ‘weak ties’ of vast online networks suggested by the displacement hypothesis [11], these were presented as close friendships whose enduring existence was stimulated by SMU in the absence of opportunities for offline interaction.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [11] Kraut R, Patterson M, Lundmark V, Kiesler S, Mukophadhyay T, Scherlis W. Internet paradox: a social technology that reduces social involvement and psychological well-being? Am Psychol. 1998 Sep;53(9):1017–31. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.53.9.1017. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationown data
Rather than displacing time spent socialising face-to-face with family, these comments showed how SMU was an important means of maintaining social interaction when in-person contact was not possible.
“Rather than displacing time spent socialising face-to-face with family, these comments showed how SMU was an important means of maintaining social interaction when in-person contact was not possible.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationown data
The concept of displacement is exemplified through young people's defining of friendship in the normative obligation to exchange likes and positive comments.
“In addition to extending the positive stimulation effect of online communication into negative feelings of oppressiveness, the concept of displacement is exemplified here through young people’s defining of friendship in the normative obligation to exchange likes and positive comments.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationown data
An authoritative approach to setting sensible SMU boundaries - seemingly reflective of good family connectedness - seemed to be acceptable to young people.
“In this sense, an authoritative approach to setting sensible SMU boundaries – seemingly reflective of good family connectedness – seemed to be acceptable to young people.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationown data
The strong family connectedness depicted by minimal social media users appeared to have a protective effect against SMU displacing time spent together.
“The strong family connectedness depicted by these participants appeared to have a protective effect against SMU displacing time spent together.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
Rather than displacement or stimulation, the authors suggest this represents a situation of 'over-stimulation'.
“Rather than displacement or stimulation, we suggest this represents a situation of ‘over-stimulation’.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationown data
SMU was determined to be an important - and in some cases, critical - means of maintaining and expanding the size of young people's social networks.
“As such, SMU was determined to be an important – and in some cases, critical – means of maintaining and expanding the size of young people’s social networks.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
A 'rich-get-richer' effect appears to develop, with social media promoting further trust and family connectedness.
“A ‘rich-get-richer’ [19] effect appears to develop, with social media promoting further trust and family connectedness (Fig. 3).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [19] Valkenburg PM, Peter J. Online communication and adolescent well-being: testing the stimulation versus the displacement hypothesis. J Comput-Mediat Commun. 2007 Jul 1;12(4):1169–82. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1083-6101.2007.00368.x. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationreasoning
In addition to quality of existing offline social resources, the different activities and ways in which adolescents use social media will partially determine the direction and valence of effects.
“In addition to quality of existing offline social resources, the different activities and ways in which adolescents use social media will partially determine the direction and valence of effects.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
SMU may therefore serve as a protective tool in some circumstances to mitigate psychological risks associated with poor family connectedness or reduced face-to-face socialising.
“SMU may therefore serve as a protective tool in some circumstances to mitigate psychological risks associated with poor family connectedness or reduced face-to-face socialising.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationown data
In such cases, privacy settings became markers of group membership.
“In such cases, privacy settings became markers of group membership.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
Passive SMU, devoid of social interaction, is unlikely to confer the same social benefits as SMU for direct communication with friends.
“Passive SMU, devoid of social interaction, is unlikely to confer the same social benefits as SMU for direct communication with friends.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationown data
Where a family environment of mutual respect had been established and consideration had been given to understanding the indispensable role of social media in young people's lives, with positive aspects acknowledged in addition to traditional e-safety concerns, young people were more accepting of advice and clear boundaries regarding healthy SMU.
“Where a family environment of mutual respect had been established and consideration had been given to understanding the indispensable role of social media in young people’s lives, with positive aspects acknowledged in addition to traditional e-safety concerns, young people were more accepting of advice and clear boundaries regarding healthy SMU.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationown data
Our study provides more evidence for the stimulation hypothesis, whereby SMU enhances the user's existing social resources through increased contact and maintenance of relationships.
“Our study provides more evidence for the stimulation hypothesis, whereby SMU enhances the user’s existing social resources through increased contact and maintenance of relationships.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
SMU also provides opportunities for young people to construct, express, and develop identity in relation to their social world.
“SMU also provides opportunities for young people to construct, express, and develop identity in relation to their social world [30].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [30] Davis K. Young people’s digital lives: the impact of interpersonal relationships and digital media use on adolescents’ sense of identity. Comput Hum Behav. 2013;29(6):2281–93. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2013.05.022. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationown data
This may foster feelings of connectedness and belonging, in line with the stimulation hypothesis.
“This may foster feelings of connectedness and belonging, in line with the stimulation hypothesis.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
The relationship between SMU and social connectedness cannot be viewed as independent of either content or context.
“The relationship between SMU and social connectedness cannot be viewed as independent of either content or context.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
The separation of the social environment offline and on social media is not clear cut.
“The separation of the social environment offline and on social media is not clear cut.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
Risks to peer connectedness encountered online, such as cyber-ostracism or screenshotting, may thus be mitigated by strong family connectedness.
“Risks to peer connectedness encountered online, such as cyber-ostracism or screenshotting, may thus be mitigated by strong family connectedness.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationcitation
Consistent with a 'poor-get-richer' effect, those with reduced social resources offline - not only due to social awkwardness or anxiety but also loneliness or geographical barriers to offline interaction - find online support particularly beneficial.
“Consistent with a ‘poor-get-richer’ effect, those with reduced social resources offline – not only due to social awkwardness or anxiety but also loneliness or geographical barriers to offline interaction – find online support particularly beneficial [17, 27].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [17] Nowland R, Necka EA, Cacioppo JT. Loneliness and social internet use: pathways to reconnection in a digital world? Perspect Psychol Sci. 2018 Jan;13(1):70–87. https://doi.org/10.1177/1745691617713052. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [27] Nesi J, Choukas-Bradley S, Prinstein MJ. Transformation of adolescent peer relations in the social media context: part 1—a theoretical framework and application to dyadic peer relationships. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev. 2018;21(3):267–94. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10567-018-0261-x. source
Not checked in the free run.
- May combine two claims. 62
- Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 30
May combine two claims.
Findingown dataFour themes were identified: (i) 'Displacement of face-to-face socialising' (ii) 'Social obligations' (iii) '(Mis)Trust' and (iv) 'Personal and group identity'.
“Analysis identified four themes: (i) ‘Displacement of face-to-face socialising’ (ii) ‘Social obligations’ (iii) ‘(Mis)Trust’ and (iv) ‘Personal and group identity’.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataWhile many participants accepted this etiquette as part of everyday peer relationships, others described it as time-consuming and 'overwhelming', with some feeling 'forced' to like or comment on a friend's post.
“While many participants accepted this etiquette as part of everyday peer relationships, others described it as time-consuming and ‘overwhelming’ (F15), with some feeling ‘forced’ (M4) to like or comment on a friend’s post.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataSMU was often credited with expansion of participants' social circle through making new friends online, both by offering opportunities for new introductions and by facilitating development of friendships through initial online communication, which felt less intimidating than new face-to-face socialising.
“In addition to maintaining stability within their social circle, SMU was also often credited with expansion of participants’ social circle through making new friends online, both by offering opportunities for new introductions, such as through a ‘mutual friend’ (F5), and by facilitating the development of friendships through initial online communication, which felt less intimidating than new face”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Findingown dataThis following was generally framed positively as overseeing participants' SMU for their protection, either in terms of giving advice about data privacy or inappropriate posts, or in more practical terms, whereby geographical tags can help parents locate young people if they are unable to contact them.
“This was generally framed positively as overseeing participants’ SMU for their protection, either in terms of giving advice about data privacy or inappropriate posts (F17), or in more practical terms, whereby geographical tags can help parents locate young people if they are unable to contact them (M4).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataOnline peer interactions frequently took place when in-person socialising was not possible, helping to alleviate feelings of boredom and loneliness.
“However, online peer interactions frequently took place when in-person socialising was not possible, helping to alleviate feelings of boredom and loneliness.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataParticipants reported feeling obliged - in line with social norms - to respond promptly to messages from peers and to provide positive feedback on peers' social media posts.
“Participants reported feeling obliged – in line with social norms – to respond promptly to messages from peers and to provide positive feedback on peers’ social media posts.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataWe found some evidence of online enhanced self-disclosure in our sample - in line with the stimulation hypothesis - whereby features of online communication facilitate sharing of intimate information, leading to better quality relationships.
“We found some evidence of online enhanced self-disclosure in our sample – in line with the stimulation hypothesis – whereby features of online communication facilitate sharing of intimate information, leading to better quality relationships [28].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [28] Desjarlais M, Joseph JJ. Socially interactive and passive technologies enhance friendship quality: an investigation of the mediating roles of online and offline self-disclosure. Cyberpsychol Behav Soc Netw. 2017;20(5):286–91. https://doi.org/10.1089/cyber.2016.0363. source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
Findingown dataOne participant felt a lack of trust to be left in charge of their own SMU, with implications for responding to adverse online experiences.
“One exception to this provided an example of a more complicated relationship with parents and felt a lack of trust to be left in charge of their own SMU, with implications for responding to adverse online experiences.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataParticipant F12 described the process of commenting and liking on others' posts as 'trading' to boost perceived popularity for enhanced peer status.
“Participant F12 described the process of commenting and liking on others’ posts as ‘trading’ to boost perceived popularity for enhanced peer status.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataWhilst SMU enhanced feelings of connectedness through enabling participants to keep in touch with others, this was frequently accompanied by demanding expectations amongst peers.
“Whilst SMU enhanced feelings of connectedness through enabling participants to keep in touch with others, this was frequently accompanied by demanding expectations amongst peers.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataWhere close friends were felt to be trustworthy, social media provided opportunities for self-disclosure, fostering intimacy and improving peer connectedness in a virtuous cycle.
“Where close friends were felt to be trustworthy, social media provided opportunities for self-disclosure, fostering intimacy in the relationship, and improving peer connectedness in a virtuous cycle.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataThere were no systematic differences in opinions and experiences between participants from the two different schools or those interviewed individually compared to with others.
“There were no systematic differences in opinions and experiences between participants from the two different schools or those interviewed individually compared to with others, so comparisons are not presented here.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Findingown dataSome participants pointed to the possibility of excessive SMU displacing time spent socialising in person with friends, leading some young people to 'distance themselves from family and friends'.
“As with family interactions, some participants pointed to the possibility of excessive SMU displacing time spent socialising in person with friends, leading some young people to ‘distance themselves from family and friends’ (M5).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataF1 felt that her parents' dogmatic approach to social media prevented her reporting online sexual harassment in case she was no longer allowed to use certain apps.
“This is evident in contrasting comments from F14, who was comfortable approaching their mother for help with online peer relationships, and F1, who felt that her parents’ dogmatic approach to social media prevented her reporting online sexual harassment in case she was no longer allowed to use certain apps.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataThose participants with parents who had demonstrated their trust reported feeling able to discuss and ask for advice on difficult issues encountered on social media, whereas those with less trusting parents felt reluctant to approach their parents for fear of repercussions.
“Those participants with parents who had demonstrated their trust reported feeling able to discuss and ask for advice on difficult issues encountered on social media, whereas those with less trusting parents felt reluctant to approach their parents for fear of repercussions.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataThis obligation was sometimes accompanied by feeling overwhelmed by multiple messages or group chats, guilt associated with making excuses for unavailability or outright peer conflict if expectations were not met.
“This was sometimes accompanied by feeling overwhelmed by multiple messages or group chats, guilt associated with making excuses for unavailability or outright peer conflict if expectations were not met.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataSeveral participants explained their motivation for commenting on a friend's post as an act of altruism to boost others' self-esteem, stimulating peer connectedness through provision of emotional support and mutual respect.
“Several participants explained their motivation for commenting on a friend’s post as an act of altruism to boost others’ self-esteem, stimulating peer connectedness through provision of emotional support and mutual respect (F4, F5, F10).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataSocial network expansion was highlighted as a key benefit of SMU, meeting new people, and maintaining contact with old friends outside of school and family members abroad.
“Social network expansion was also highlighted as a key benefit of SMU, meeting new people, and maintaining contact with old friends outside of school and family members abroad.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataOthers gave opinions aligned with the stimulation hypothesis, whereby online socialising facilitated offline interaction when they felt their own personalities to be 'shy' or socially 'awkward' - a social compensation effect.
“Others gave opinions more aligned with the stimulation hypothesis, whereby online socialising facilitated offline interaction when they felt their own personalities to be ‘shy’ or socially ‘awkward’ (F6) – a social compensation effect [26].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [26] Valkenburg PM, Peter J. Social consequences of the internet for adolescents: a decade of research. Curr Dir Psychol Sci. 2009;18(1):1–5. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8721.2009.01595.x. source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
Findingown dataParticipants often discussed their online communication in obligation-related terms as a means of avoiding conflict with peers, or as a chore necessary to adhere to social norms.
“Participants often discussed their online communication in obligation-related terms as a means of avoiding conflict with peers, or as a chore necessary to adhere to social norms.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataBeing available to take part in multiple online conversations simultaneously was felt to be 'stressful' and 'a mess in my mind', with ending conversations causing difficulty for several participants.
“Being available to take part in multiple online conversations simultaneously was felt to be ‘stressful’ and ‘a mess in my mind’ (M4), with ending conversations causing difficulty for several participants.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
FindingreasoningYoung people felt they were trusted to behave responsibly online and in turn trusted authority figures to provide guidance regarding challenges encountered without fear of access to social media being removed or restricted.
“Young people felt they were trusted to behave responsibly online and in turn trusted authority figures to provide guidance regarding challenges encountered without fear of access to social media being removed or restricted.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataPerceived benefits of SMU that emerged in this sample included the expansion of social networks, the ability to keep in touch with friends and family (including those for whom geographical constraints prevent offline socialising), enhanced self-disclosure for socially awkward young people or among very close friends, and supporting identity development and feelings of belonging.
“Perceived benefits of SMU that emerged in this sample included the expansion of social networks, the ability to keep in touch with friends and family (including those for whom geographical constraints prevent offline socialising), enhanced self-disclosure for socially awkward young people or among very close friends, and supporting identity development and feelings of belonging.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataThe young people in our sample were acutely aware of the risks of identity theft and of engaging online with potentially dangerous strangers.
“The young people in our sample were thus acutely aware of the risks of identity theft and of engaging online with potentially dangerous strangers.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataFor many participants the risk of screenshots being taken and shared presented a substantial barrier to online self-disclosure, with some saying they would not trust even close friends with sensitive information sent over social media.
“For many participants the risk of screenshots being taken and shared presented a substantial barrier to online self-disclosure (Fig. 1), with some saying they would not trust even close friends with sensitive information sent over social media.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataIt was often the case that online peer interactions took place mainly when in person socialising was not possible, providing opportunities to socialise and maintain peer relationships online in the absence of offline opportunities.
“However, it was often the case that online peer interactions took place mainly when in person socialising was not possible, providing opportunities to socialise and maintain peer relationships online in the absence of offline opportunities.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataThose experiencing increased SMU in place of family socialising tended to relay lower levels of family connectedness that preceded the SMU, with SMU used strategically to overcome feelings of loneliness in the home.
“Those experiencing increased SMU in place of family socialising tended to relay lower levels of family connectedness that preceded the SMU, with SMU used strategically to overcome feelings of loneliness in the home.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataYoung people reported feeling pressures of expectation around providing feedback on friends' online posts and being constantly available for communication.
“In addition to the positive aspects of SMU, young people reported feeling pressures of expectation around providing feedback on friends’ online posts and being constantly available for communication.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataFour themes were identified: i) 'Displacement of face-to-face socialising' (ii) 'Social obligations' (iii) '(Mis)Trust' and (iv) 'Personal and group identity'.
“Four themes were identified: i) ‘Displacement of face-to-face socialising’ (ii) ‘Social obligations’ (iii) ‘(Mis)Trust’ and (iv) ‘Personal and group identity’.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataOthers reserved any content sharing only for trusted close friends, and only using certain apps such as Snapchat where users are notified if someone has taken a screenshot.
“Others reserved any content sharing only for trusted close friends, and only using certain apps such as Snapchat where users are notified if someone has taken a screenshot.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataYoung people in our sample reported using social media to share experiences, such as passively watching entertaining content together with friends and family members, as well as actively co-producing content, with privacy settings used to demarcate friendship group boundaries to different degrees of closeness.
“Young people in our sample reported using social media to share experiences, such as passively watching entertaining content together with friends and family members, as well as actively co-producing content, with privacy settings used to demarcate friendship group boundaries to different degrees of closeness (Fig. 2).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductown dataThe topic guide was developed following consultation with a young people's advisory board.
“The guide was developed following consultation with a young people’s advisory board – a group of 11–18-year-olds with experience in advising on the design of health-related research materials.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
Study design and conductcitationAn inductive, reflexive approach to thematic analysis was used from a critical realist (contextualist) perspective.
“An inductive, reflexive approach to thematic analysis was used from a critical realist (contextualist) perspective [25].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [25] Braun V, Clarke V. One size fits all? What counts as quality practice in (reflexive) thematic analysis? Qual Res Psychol. 2020;14:1–25.
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S1 (asserted), S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationThe displacement hypothesis posits that online engagement and expansion of social networks are primarily with weak ties rather than close family and friends, and are of little benefit to psychosocial well-being.
“Where used for communication purposes, online engagement and expansion of social networks were thought to be primarily with weak ties rather than with close family and friends, and as such, of little benefit to psychosocial well-being [11, 13].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [11] Kraut R, Patterson M, Lundmark V, Kiesler S, Mukophadhyay T, Scherlis W. Internet paradox: a social technology that reduces social involvement and psychological well-being? Am Psychol. 1998 Sep;53(9):1017–31. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.53.9.1017. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [13] Turkle S. Alone together: why we expect more from technology and less from each other. Hachette UK; 2017.
Not checked in the free run.
- Rests on an assumption: The displacement and stimulation hypotheses, developed for internet use, are applicable to social media use.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationBoth the stimulation and displacement hypotheses may be possible, depending on both the amount and type of SMU.
“This indicates that rather than being mutually exclusive theories, both the stimulation and displacement hypotheses may be possible, depending on both the amount and type of SMU [17].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [17] Nowland R, Necka EA, Cacioppo JT. Loneliness and social internet use: pathways to reconnection in a digital world? Perspect Psychol Sci. 2018 Jan;13(1):70–87. https://doi.org/10.1177/1745691617713052. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Rests on an assumption: The displacement and stimulation hypotheses, developed for internet use, are applicable to social media use.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationThe displacement hypothesis posits that use of the internet for entertainment purposes displaces time spent socialising offline, subsequently undermining social connectedness.
“Use of the internet for entertainment purposes – as a solitary, socially disengaged activity comparable to passive consumption of social media content without active engagement – is thought to displace time spent socialising with others offline, subsequently undermining social connectedness [11, 12].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [11] Kraut R, Patterson M, Lundmark V, Kiesler S, Mukophadhyay T, Scherlis W. Internet paradox: a social technology that reduces social involvement and psychological well-being? Am Psychol. 1998 Sep;53(9):1017–31. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.53.9.1017. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [12] Bessière K, Kiesler S, Kraut R, Boneva BS. Effects of internet use and social resources on changes in depression. Information, Community & Society. 2008 Feb 1;11(1):47–70. https://doi.org/10.1080/13691180701858851. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Rests on an assumption: The displacement and stimulation hypotheses, developed for internet use, are applicable to social media use.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationFamily connectedness buffers the negative effects of bullying and is related to lower risk for suicide-related outcomes and depressive symptoms.
“Family connectedness in particular has been found to buffer the negative effects of bullying and to be related to lower risk for suicide-related outcomes and depressive symptoms [3, 4].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [3] McLoughlin LT, Spears BA, Taddeo CM, Hermens DF. Remaining connected in the face of cyberbullying: why social connectedness is important for mental health. Psychol Sch. 2019;56(6):945–58. https://doi.org/10.1002/pits.22232. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [4] Foster CE, Horwitz A, Thomas A, Opperman K, Gipson P, Burnside A, et al. Connectedness to family, school, peers, and community in socially vulnerable adolescents. Child Youth Serv Rev. 2017 Oct 1;81:321–31. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2017.08.011. source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationThe stimulation hypothesis posits that SMU enhances the user's existing social resources through increased contact and maintenance of relationships.
“Evidence also exists in support of an opposing theory, the stimulation hypothesis, whereby SMU enhances the user’s existing social resources through increased contact and maintenance of relationships [17, 18].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [17] Nowland R, Necka EA, Cacioppo JT. Loneliness and social internet use: pathways to reconnection in a digital world? Perspect Psychol Sci. 2018 Jan;13(1):70–87. https://doi.org/10.1177/1745691617713052. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [18] Best P, Taylor B, Manktelow R. I’ve 500 friends, but who are my mates? Investigating the influence of online friend networks on adolescent wellbeing. Journal of Public Mental Health. 2015 . source
Not checked in the free run.
- Rests on an assumption: The displacement and stimulation hypotheses, developed for internet use, are applicable to social media use.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Study design and conductreasoningFlexibility in the topic guide allowed interview participants to take the conversation in any direction they felt relevant, mitigating the impact of adult researchers' preconceptions.
“Flexibility in the topic guide allowed interview participants to take the conversation in any direction they felt to be relevant to the broad issue of social media and mental health, reflecting on their own SMU as well as that of their peers. This flexibility was felt to be important in mitigating the impact of the adult researchers’ preconceptions about adolescent SMU, social connectedness and”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S1 (asserted), S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationAdolescents are increasingly using social media to enhance the quality of existing friendships rather than seeking out new connections, leading to beneficial impacts on social connectedness and social and emotional support.
“In direct contradiction to the displacement hypothesis (whereby strong social ties are displaced with weak ones) it has been suggested that adolescents are increasingly using social media to enhance the quality of existing friendships rather than seeking out new connections, leading to beneficial impacts on social connectedness and social and emotional support [17].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [17] Nowland R, Necka EA, Cacioppo JT. Loneliness and social internet use: pathways to reconnection in a digital world? Perspect Psychol Sci. 2018 Jan;13(1):70–87. https://doi.org/10.1177/1745691617713052. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Rests on an assumption: The displacement and stimulation hypotheses, developed for internet use, are applicable to social media use.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Study design and conductcitationA systematic and inclusive coding process was adopted, with coding applied flexibly to include unexpected data.
“A systematic and inclusive coding process was adopted, with coding applied flexibly to include unexpected data [25].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [25] Braun V, Clarke V. One size fits all? What counts as quality practice in (reflexive) thematic analysis? Qual Res Psychol. 2020;14:1–25.
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationPeer popularity is a key aspect of identity development and sense of self in adolescence, and receipt of feedback to social media content may therefore still be an important contributor to well-being and peer connectedness for this age group.
“However, peer popularity is a key aspect of identity development and sense of self in adolescence, and receipt of feedback to social media content may therefore still be an important contributor to well-being and peer connectedness for this age group [27].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [27] Nesi J, Choukas-Bradley S, Prinstein MJ. Transformation of adolescent peer relations in the social media context: part 1—a theoretical framework and application to dyadic peer relationships. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev. 2018;21(3):267–94. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10567-018-0261-x. source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataThis aligns with neither the displacement nor stimulation hypothesis; participants seemed to reveal a sense of 'over-stimulation' or 'hyper-connectedness' with peers, whereby perceived excessive or duty-bound online communication no longer enhanced friendship quality but became a burden attached to friendships.
“This aligns with neither the displacement nor stimulation hypothesis. These participants seemed to reveal a sense of ‘over-stimulation’ or ‘hyper-connectedness’ with peers, whereby perceived excessive or duty-bound online communication no longer enhanced friendship quality but became a burden attached to friendships.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataWhereas passive or excessive SMU may be perceived to displace face-to-face interaction, using social media explicitly for socialising may fulfil more of a stimulation function - enabling friends to 'hang out' online when doing so in person is not possible.
“Whereas passive or excessive SMU may be perceived to displace face-to-face interaction, using social media explicitly for socialising may fulfil more of a stimulation function – enabling friends to ‘hang out’ (M4, M5) online when doing so in person is not possible.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Study design and conductnone givenAnalysis was conducted primarily by LW, who acknowledges that her own experiences of SMU will unavoidably frame her interpretation of the data.
“Analysis was conducted primarily by LW, from the perspective of an adult using social media for direct communication with existing friends and family. LW acknowledges that her own experiences – both positive and negative – of SMU will unavoidably frame her interpretation of the data.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningRather than a linear effect of displacement or stimulation, displacement or undermining of social connectedness seemed to present in a poor-get-poorer effect, whereas good quality relationships were further stimulated by SMU in a rich-get-richer effect.
“Rather than a linear effect of displacement or stimulation, displacement or undermining of social connectedness seemed to present in a poor-get-poorer effect, whereas good quality relationships were further stimulated by SMU in a rich-get-richer effect.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataThe understanding that provision of positive feedback is expected rather than based on genuine positive evaluation of content may undermine the validating effect of receiving positive feedback oneself, leading some young people to view likes or comments received on their own content as a superficial form of popularity and undermining benefits to self-esteem.
“This understanding that provision of positive feedback is expected rather than based on genuine positive evaluation of content may undermine the validating effect of receiving positive feedback oneself, leading some young people to view likes or comments received on their own content as a superficial form of popularity and undermining benefits to self-esteem.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductnone givenParticipants were not asked to provide feedback on the findings.
“Participants were not asked to provide feedback on the findings.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
InterpretationcitationThese more potentially hollow popularity-based aspects of friendships are indicative of 'weak' ties - a superficial type of peer support compared to the deeper benefits of strong affective ties defined by close emotional, tangible support, mutual respect and trust.
“These more potentially hollow popularity-based aspects of friendships are indicative of ‘weak’ ties – a superficial type of peer support compared to the deeper benefits of strong affective ties defined by close emotional, tangible support, mutual respect and trust [11].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [11] Kraut R, Patterson M, Lundmark V, Kiesler S, Mukophadhyay T, Scherlis W. Internet paradox: a social technology that reduces social involvement and psychological well-being? Am Psychol. 1998 Sep;53(9):1017–31. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.53.9.1017. source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningSMU was felt to strengthen or maintain peer connectedness for those with reduced opportunities for offline socialising, providing a protective effect from the risks of poor peer connectedness or loneliness.
“SMU was thus felt to strengthen or maintain peer connectedness for those with reduced opportunities for offline socialising, providing a protective effect from the risks of poor peer connectedness or loneliness.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Interpretationown dataThis emotive language seemed to convey a sense of excessive peer connectedness or over-stimulation emerging from unrealistic but increasingly normalised expectations of friendship.
“This emotive language seemed to convey a sense of excessive peer connectedness or over-stimulation emerging from unrealistic but increasingly normalised expectations of friendship.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Study design and conductown dataInitial themes were constructed and reviewed iteratively against each interview, with thematic boundaries altered as necessary and further amendments made following group discussion between authors.
“Following coding of the complete dataset, initial themes were constructed and reviewed iteratively when examined against each interview, with thematic boundaries altered as necessary. Further amendments were made where appropriate following group discussion between the authors to review both codes and themes.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataConversely, an existing lack of trust in relationships between young people and their parents may underpin a rejection of screen-time restrictions and a reluctance to report exposure to online harms, adding further to a sense of social distance and further undermining connectedness, consistent with a 'poor-get-poorer' effect.
“Conversely, an existing lack of trust in relationships between young people and their parents may underpin a rejection of screen-time restrictions and a reluctance to report exposure to online harms, adding further to a sense of social distance and further undermining connectedness, consistent with a ‘poor-get-poorer’ effect (Fig. 4).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningAn adult discourse of SMU displacing activities they perceived to be healthier had negative implications for highlighting differences between generational groups and reducing feelings of mutual respect and understanding.
“Rather than displacement weakening family connectedness here, an adult discourse of SMU displacing activities they perceived to be healthier had negative implications for highlighting differences between generational groups and reducing feelings of mutual respect and understanding.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationA cross-sectional survey of Canadian adolescents found that heavy SMU (3 or more hours per day) was associated with greater odds of negative reported relationships between mothers and daughters, fathers and daughters and fathers and sons, but not mothers and sons.
“One of few studies examining SMU and family connectedness, a cross-sectional survey of Canadian adolescents [29] found that heavy SMU (3 or more hours per day) was associated with greater odds of negative reported relationships between mothers and daughters, fathers and daughters and fathers and sons, but not mothers and sons.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [29] Sampasa-Kanyinga H, Goldfield GS, Kingsbury M, Clayborne Z, Colman I. Social media use and parent–child relationship: a cross-sectional study of adolescents. J Community Psychology. 2020;48(3):793–803. https://doi.org/10.1002/jcop.22293. source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
Interpretationown dataFeeling understood and respected by adults should encourage young people to accept and appreciate healthy boundaries established regarding their digital activities.
“Feeling understood and respected by adults should encourage young people to accept and appreciate healthy boundaries established regarding their digital activities.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Study design and conductcitationA broad range of views and experiences were captured in the sample, which were sufficient to enable rich themes to be generated.
“However, a broad range of views and experiences were captured in the sample, which were sufficient to enable rich themes to be generated [31].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [31] Braun V, Clarke V. To saturate or not to saturate? Questioning data saturation as a useful concept for thematic analysis and sample-size rationales. Qualitative research in sport, exercise and health. 2021;13(2):201–16. https://doi.org/10.1080/2159676X.2019.1704846. source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningDifferent offline experiences and circumstances are likely to be accompanied by different online experiences, and caution should therefore be exercised in generalising findings from this study to other populations.
“Different offline experiences and circumstances are likely to be accompanied by different online experiences, and caution should therefore be exercised in generalising findings from this study to other populations.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataThese age-related group differences - accentuated by divergent attitudes to SMU - have the potential to increase inter-generational discord, harming family connectedness through diminished feelings of mutual understanding and respect.
“These age-related group differences – accentuated by divergent attitudes to SMU – have the potential to increase inter-generational discord, harming family connectedness through diminished feelings of mutual understanding and respect.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataIn restricting online self-disclosure, this fear and mistrust of social media audiences represent a limit to online peer connectedness, aligned to the displacement of good quality face-to-face social interactions with less intimate ones online.
“In restricting online self-disclosure, this fear and mistrust of social media audiences represent a limit to online peer connectedness, aligned to the displacement of good quality face-to-face social interactions with less intimate ones online.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningWith this supportive environment, young people are able to navigate online difficulties but also feel encouraged to share positive social media content with family members, promoting shared interests and family identity.
“With this supportive environment, young people are able to navigate online difficulties but also feel encouraged to share positive social media content with family members, promoting shared interests and family identity.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationPrevious research found that adolescents' time spent on instant messaging services enhances time spent face-to-face with friends, and subsequent quality of friendships.
“This is in line with previous research finding that adolescents’ time spent on instant messaging services enhances time spent face-to-face with friends, and subsequent quality of friendships [20].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [20] Bohn A, Buchta C, Hornik K, Mair P. Making friends and communicating on Facebook: implications for the access to social capital. Soc Networks. 2014 May 1;37:29–41. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socnet.2013.11.003. source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataThis supports a 'poor-get-poorer' or 'social deterioration' effect, whereby those who feel less connected to their family are likely to rely more on SMU for social interactions or to alleviate boredom at home, further compounding a lack of connectedness within the household.
“This supports a ‘poor-get-poorer’ or ‘social deterioration’ effect, whereby those who feel less connected to their family are likely to rely more on SMU for social interactions or to alleviate boredom at home, further compounding a lack of connectedness within the household.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningCombined with a general discomfort with online self-disclosure or fear of screenshotting among peers, this mistrust can simultaneously be perceived as a challenge to quality in peer relationships and interpreted as a constructive strategy for mitigating risk.
“Combined with a general discomfort with online self-disclosure or fear of screenshotting among peers, this mistrust can simultaneously be perceived as a challenge to quality in peer relationships and interpreted as a constructive strategy for mitigating risk.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
InterpretationreasoningIf, as our evidence suggests, the online social environment is an extension of relationships in the real world, fostering healthy connectedness with others offline is likely to maximise the social benefits and minimise the potential harms of social media for young people.
“If, as our evidence suggests, the online social environment is an extension of relationships in the real world, fostering healthy connectedness with others offline is likely to maximise the social benefits and minimise the potential harms of social media for young people.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
InterpretationreasoningThis co-production could improve peer connectedness through collaboratively working to achieve a common creative goal and sharing in a sense of accomplishment.
“This co-production could improve peer connectedness through collaboratively working to achieve a common creative goal and sharing in a sense of accomplishment.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
Interpretationown dataHealthy peer relationships in which there is trust, respect, and space to ignore digital notifications and messages are likely to benefit most from SMU that enables enhanced self-disclosure and increased closeness without feeling oppressive.
“Healthy peer relationships in which there is trust, respect, and space to ignore digital notifications and messages are likely to benefit most from SMU that enables enhanced self-disclosure and increased closeness without feeling oppressive.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
InterpretationreasoningFocusing on developing trusting, attentive relationships with peers and parents offline is likely to optimise the potential for social media to further benefit social connectedness.
“Focusing on developing trusting, attentive relationships with peers and parents offline is likely to optimise the potential for social media to further benefit social connectedness.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Study design and conductreasoningWhile our sample was diverse in their experiences of social media, they were not selected on the basis of how much they used SMU or for what reasons, therefore it is possible that some additional patterns of SMU may exist in this age group that were not captured.
“While our sample was diverse in their experiences of social media, they were not selected on the basis of how much they used SMU or for what reasons, therefore it is possible that some additional patterns of SMU may exist in this age group that were not captured.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataIdentity development and expression was supported by SMU, simultaneously stimulating connectedness to a wider peer network.
“Identity development and expression was thus supported by SMU, simultaneously stimulating connectedness to a wider peer network.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningIt may be that SMU for direct peer communication may stimulate connectedness and subsequent well-being to a point, whereas excessive communication and the associated expectations to respond might undermine these benefits.
“It may be that SMU for direct peer communication may stimulate connectedness and subsequent well-being to a point, whereas excessive communication and the associated expectations to respond might undermine these benefits.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningConsidering peer and family connectedness together, this is also illustrative of a 'poor-get-richer' or 'social compensation' effect, whereby poor family connectedness leads to increased online socialising with friends and subsequent improved peer connectedness.
“Considering peer and family connectedness together, this is also illustrative of a ‘poor-get-richer’ or ‘social compensation’ effect, whereby poor family connectedness leads to increased online socialising with friends and subsequent improved peer connectedness.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataThe fear of data misappropriation such as screenshotting within broader peer networks appeared to have led to widespread underlying feelings of mistrust, thus undermining peer connectedness, and lending weight to the suggestion that broader SMU may discourage development of 'strong ties'.
“In addition, the fear of data misappropriation such as screenshotting within broader peer networks appeared to have led to widespread underlying feelings of mistrust, thus undermining peer connectedness, and lending weight to the suggestion that broader SMU may discourage development of ‘strong ties’.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Study design and conductnone givenOur sample size was somewhat smaller than planned due to the emergence of COVID-19, with boys in particular under-represented.
“Our sample size was somewhat smaller than planned due to the emergence of COVID-19, with boys in particular under-represented.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataWhere close friends were felt to be trustworthy, social media provided opportunities for self-disclosure, fostering intimacy in the relationship and improving peer connectedness in a 'rich-get-richer' or 'social enhancement' effect.
“Where close friends were felt to be trustworthy, social media provided opportunities for self-disclosure, fostering intimacy in the relationship and improving peer connectedness in a ‘rich-get-richer’ or ‘social enhancement’ effect (Fig. 2).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationThis aligns to the 'digital Goldilocks hypothesis' and other evidence of a curvilinear relationship between SMU and psychosocial adjustment, whereby moderate SMU is beneficial to well-being (compared to no use at all) but excessive use is associated with negative outcomes.
“This aligns to the 'digital Goldilocks hypothesis' [24] and other evidence of a curvilinear relationship between SMU and psychosocial adjustment [23], whereby moderate SMU is beneficial to well-being (compared to no use at all) but excessive use is associated with negative outcomes.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [24] Przybylski AK, Orben A, Weinstein N. How much is too much? Examining the relationship between digital screen engagement and psychosocial functioning in a confirmatory cohort study. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2020;59(9):1080–8. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaac.2019.06.017. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [23] Wang K, Frison E, Eggermont S, Vandenbosch L. Active public Facebook use and adolescents' feelings of loneliness: evidence for a curvilinear relationship. J Adolesc. 2018;67:35–44. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adolescence.2018.05.008. source
Not checked in the free run.
The paper relies on this without support.
The displacement and stimulation hypotheses, developed for internet use, are applicable to social media use.
“The displacement hypothesis was formulated on the basis of internet use rather than social media specifically [11].”
The paper relies on this without support.
The themes identified by the researchers reflect the participants’ experiences rather than solely the researchers’ interpretations.
“We interpreted the data as adults who experienced adolescence in a time before social media existed and we reflected on this throughout the analytic process.”
Claims other papers make about this one
Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?
Lonely young people's digital media engagement and its underpinning motivations cannot be summarized in simple terms; it likely represents a diverse spectrum of individual circumstances.
“This indicates that lonely young people's digital media engagement, and the underpinning motivations for this engagement, cannot be summarized in simple terms; instead, it likely represents a diverse spectrum of individual circumstances. 48”
From Social media use, online experiences, and loneliness among young adults: A cohort study (2025) · cites this paper as [48]
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Wang, S., Gao, C., & Yang, X. (2023) · Research Square · doi:10.21203/rs.3.rs-2961689/v1 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
Does Perceived Media Values Affect Customers' Trust in Media-based Brands?Preprint
Liao, W., Tian, Z., Imeni, M., & Edalatpanah, S. A. (2024) · Research Square · doi:10.21203/rs.3.rs-3990942/v1 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
Perera, R. U., Kularatne, I., & Omisakin, O. M. (2022) · Rere Āwhio - The Journal of Applied Research and Practice · doi:10.34074/rere.00202
Disclosure, Concealment, and the Issue of Privacy among Selected Facebook Users
Valencia, J. G. (2023) · American Journal of Arts and Human Science · doi:10.54536/ajahs.v2i4.2198
Analyzing the Efficacy of Bot Detection Methods on Twitter/XPreprint
Javed, D., Zaman, N., Khan, N. A., Ray, S. K., Mazroa, A. A., Ayaz, R., & Das, S. R. (2023) · SSRN Electronic Journal · doi:10.2139/ssrn.4665612
Kamala, S. S. P., & Jayanthiladevi, A. (2023) · IARJSET · doi:10.17148/iarjset.2023.101226
Fernandez, C. C., Maddock, J., Patalay, P., Fett, A.-K. J., Pitman, A., Vaughan, L., & Krenz, K. (2024) · Health & Place · doi:10.1016/j.healthplace.2024.103260
The Impact of TikTok Use on Social Capital among Young Adults
Tam, A. Z. T. (2024) · doi:10.12794/metadc2356165
Harnessing Immersive Technologies: Modern Perspectives on Mental Health Support
Izzouzi, L., & Tütüncü, E. K. (2024) · IEEE International Symposium on Mixed and Augmented Reality Adjunct (ISMAR-Adjunct) · doi:10.1109/ismar-adjunct64951.2024.00067
Sharma, M. R., Gupta, M., Shiju, D. J., & Pareek, S. (2024) · MGM Journal of Medical Sciences · doi:10.4103/mgmj.mgmj_304_24
Contextualized Religious Materials in Cyberspace for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)
Cacho, R. G., & Lacsa, J. E. M. (2025) · Religious Education · doi:10.1080/00344087.2025.2508566
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Young People and Social Cohesion
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30 Digital Media and Mental Health
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Herausforderungen der Mediensozialisation durch mediatisierte Vergemeinschaftungen
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What makes a difference in social media addiction among university students?
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Screen time and its determinants among adolescents in Chennai: A cross-sectional study
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Digital Socialization – Strengths and Weaknesses
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- Authors
- Winstone, L., Mars, B., Haworth, C. M. A., & Kidger, J.
- Affiliations
- University of Bristol (GB)
- University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust (GB)
- Corresponding author
- Winstone, Lizzy
- Venue
- BMC Public Health
- Published
- 2021-09-24
- Volume
- 21
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 1736-1736
- ISSN
- 1471-2458 (ISSN-L)
- PMC
- PMC8464110
- OpenAlex
- W3199521301
- Semantic Scholar
- c493610232f3c50284a2a3722bc64de4491e064a
- Cited by
- 111
- References
- 30
- Citations by year
- 2026: 26 · 2025: 31 · 2024: 25 · 2023: 19 · 2022: 9 · 2021: 1
- FWCI
- 18.70
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- en
- Open access
- gold
- doi.org
- Locations
- BMC Public Health (publishedVersion, cc-by)
- Europe PMC (PubMed Central) (publishedVersion, other-oa)
- PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by)
- PubMed (publishedVersion)
- Bristol Research (University of Bristol) (publishedVersion, cc-by)
- DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals) (submittedVersion, cc-by-sa)
- Explore Bristol Research (submittedVersion, cc-by)
- Funders
- National Institute for Health and Care Research (PD‐SPH‐2015)
- Leverhulme Trust
- Department of Health and Social Care (PD-SPH-2015)
- School for Public Health Research (Grant Reference Number PD-SPH2015, PD‐SPH‐2015)
- Topics
- Social Sciences › Sociology and Political Science › Impact of Technology on Adolescents
- Social Sciences › Education › Child Development and Digital Technology
- Physical Sciences › Computer Science › Computer Networks and Communications › Media and Digital Communication
- Keywords
- social media use, social connectedness, adolescents, displacement theory, peer relationships, family connectedness, trust, identity, adolescent mental health, inner-city youth
- MeSH terms
- Adolescent, Humans, Loneliness, Mental Health, Peer Group, Social Environment, Social Media
About these checks
Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.
Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-07.
Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-07.
Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.
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