Social networking sites and its relation to social comparison and psychological well-being among medical university students

BACKGROUND: Social networking sites (SNSs) have become an indispensable part of young adults in India. The content on one's profile and that of others on social media makes social comparison easier among young adults leading to poor mental health and life dissatisfaction. AIMS: To assess the relationship between the pattern of SNS use among young adults and depression, anxiety, and social comparison. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study among medical students done using a questionnaire consisting of pattern of SNS use and scales for social comparison, depression, and anxiety. RESULTS: We collected data from 220 students (mean age 20.44 years). Impression management was associated with higher social comparison, depression, and anxiety scores. Social comparison had a significant correlation between depression and anxiety scores. CONCLUSION: A complex association exists between duration or time spent on SNS use and psychopathology.