The Double-Edged Scroll: Active vs. Passive Social Media Use and Stress
The Double-Edged Scroll: Active vs. Passive Social Media Use and Stress
Pathum B. Rathnayake
The impact of social media on mental well-being is a complex and multifaceted problem. Past research clearly shows a complex relationship between how people use these platforms and their psychological well-being. A crucial aspect of this relationship lies in distinguishing between passive and active social media use. This analysis delves into the contrasting effects of these two engagement styles, examining how they differentially contribute to stress, loneliness, and overall well-being.
Passive social media use, which involves mindless scrolling, passive content consumption, and limited interaction, has been consistently linked to negative mental health outcomes. Passive engagement often involves simply browsing through feeds, passively observing others’ posts, and rarely engaging in direct interaction or content creation. Several mechanisms contribute to the negative effects of passive use.
- Social comparison – People often see curated and idealized content in social media. This constant exposure can lead them to compare themselves to others, which may make them feel inadequate and dissatisfied with their own lives. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook often show visual content that can be overwhelming. Users see many images of perfect beauty, success, and social acceptance. Most profiles highlight only the best parts of people’s lives, which creates a false view of reality and sets unrealistic expectations.
- Feelings of loneliness and social isolation – While social media platforms are designed to connect people, passive consumption can make them feel lonelier and more isolated. When people don’t have real interaction and two-way communication, they can feel more isolated and lonelier. This is especially true for those who struggle with social anxiety or lack support in their everyday lives.
- Information overload – passive social media use can contribute to information overload and cognitive fatigue. The constant stream of updates, notifications, and diverse content can overwhelm cognitive resources, leading to feelings of stress, anxiety, and reduced mental capacity. The brain struggles to process the massive volume of information, leading to decreased focus, impaired decision-making, and heightened feelings of being overwhelmed. Cognitive overload can seriously affect people who already have mental health issues or struggle to cope.
- Sleep Quality – The blue light from screens affects melatonin production. This disruption can lead to changes in your sleep cycle and cause sleep problems. These sleep problems make stress and anxiety worse, creating a cycle of poor sleep and negative mental health outcomes.
—In contrast to passive use, active engagement with social media can offer several potential benefits for mental well-being—
In contrast to passive use, active engagement with social media can offer several potential benefits for mental well-being. Active use means having meaningful interactions, discussing topics, creating and sharing content, and engaging with other users.
The active use of social media can increase social connection and reduce feelings of loneliness. Meaningful interactions with friends, family, and online communities can provide a sense of belonging, support, and validation. Sharing experiences, receiving empathy, and participating in discussions can improve feelings of isolation and enhance emotional well-being. Further, Active participation in social media can also provide access to valuable information and resources, enhancing feelings of support while reducing feelings of isolation.
Active participation in online communities can also facilitate self-expression and creativity. Creating and sharing content, such as writing articles, photography, or artwork, can be a powerful form of self-expression and can contribute to feelings of accomplishment and self-esteem.
Both passive and active social media use can affect people differently, depending on their individual traits and the situation. Factors like mental health conditions, personality traits, and attachment styles can shape how people respond to social media. People who already struggle with anxiety or low self-esteem may face more negative effects when they use social media passively. This can lead to higher levels of stress, anxiety, and loneliness. On the other hand, individuals with secure attachment styles and effective coping skills can better manage the challenges of social media. They are more likely to benefit from engaging actively with it.
Future research should focus on longitudinal studies that measure social media use objectively and look at more outcomes to help clarify this complex relationship. It is important to promote a balanced and mindful approach to social media, encouraging active participation and limiting passive scrolling. This way, we can make the most of social media’s benefits while reducing its potential harms. We also need more research to find effective ways to encourage healthy social media habits and to create targeted support for individuals at risk of negative mental health effects.
Cite this article in APA as: Rathnayake, P. B. The double-edged scroll: Active vs. passive social media use and stress. (2025, February 3). Information Matters, Vol. 5, Issue 2. https://informationmatters.org/2025/02/the-double-edged-scroll-active-vs-passive-social-media-use-and-stress/
