The association between self-reported depressive symptoms and the use of social networking sites (SNS): A meta-analysis

The use of social networking sites (SNSs) has become a widespread part of modern-day life. A recent proliferation of research regarding SNS use pertains to its association with self-reported depressive symptoms. The current meta-analysis evaluates this literature by assessing the relationship between SNS use and self-reported depressive symptoms. Based on 55 independent samples (N = 80, 533), an effect size of r = .165 was obtained, indicating a small, positive, significant association between self-reported symptoms of depression and SNS use. Furthermore, the type of SNS use was identified to be a significant moderator of this relationship. Limitations of this meta-analysis include the use of mainly cross-sectional studies - limiting the potential for causal claims -, as well as the subjective categorization of certain moderator subgroups. The results of this review highlight the need for advancing various streams of future research; particularly, in determining the direction of the causal relationship between these two constructs, as well as better-defined and theory-grounded definitions of the different types of SNS use.

Automated summary

Recent research shows a small, positive association between self-reported depressive symptoms and SNS use, with the type of SNS use as a significant moderator. Future research is needed to determine the direction of the causal relationship between these two constructs and establish better-defined definitions of different types of SNS use.