The sky�s the limit: A longitudinal study on how Facebook improves the psychological well-being of individuals experiencing homelessness (Preprint)

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Background: Online social networks are a powerful communicative element whose use is increasingly widespread. Persons in a extreme social exclusion like persons experiencing homelessness (IEH) can be beneficiated of the positive elements of communication and relationship associated with social network sites. OBJECTIVE: Objective: This study suggests the comparison of a Facebook training course and an office software course and their effect on psychological well being in a group of IEH. METHODS: Methods: Experimental and longitudinal study was designed. A sample of IEH were assigned to the Facebook group or the office software group randomly and their social skills, Self-Esteem, Self-Efficacy and Life Satisfaction were measured on four occasions: pre test, at the end of the training course, one month later and three months later. A mixed ANOVA of repeated measures (2x4) was performed. RESULTS: Results: A total of 92 IEH participated in the study. The number of cases in which the 4 observations were completed was 71 (35 in the intervention group and 36 in the control group). The mixed ANOVA of repeated-measures and the multiple regression analysis indicated a significant increase of the four analyzed parameters, more significant in social skills and Self-Esteem. The critical level associated to the interaction Time*Program were significant in all variables and levels. Therefore, the scores in the 4 analyzed constructs were not equal according to the program carried out throughout the work. The effect size associated to the interaction Time*Program in the scores of social skills was large (Eta2 = .32), in the self-esteem and selt-efficacy scores it was medium, (Eta2 = .13) and in satisfaction with life scores it was small (Eta2 = .09). The results of the adjustment of the different models of multiple linear regression indicate that the number of hours devoted weekly to the use of Facebook was a predictor of the increase in the scores of social skills (B = 3.43, r2 = .405) and self-esteem (B = .382). Age (B = .175) and self-efficacy (B = .09) were also variables which with independence and in equal conditions predicted the self-esteem (r2 = .29). Finally, self-esteem (B = .69) was also a predictor variable of the increase of satisfaction with life (r2 = .195). CONCLUSIONS: Conclusion: These findings suggest that Facebook could be a key element in homeless psychological wellbeing and socialization.