Exploring the relations of subjective and objective Instagram use on young adults' mental health

Abstract

We collected objective digital trace Instagram use data and subjective self-report use data to investigate relations with self-reported self-esteem, loneliness, body satisfaction, and depression among 192 young adults (ages 18–25). To our knowledge, this work is among the first of its kind to include both self-report data and digital trace data to understand similarities and differences in how each relates to aspects of users’ mental health. We measured and coded for both active and passive social media use. For objective passive Instagram use, results showed a negative relationship with loneliness and depression, and a positive relationship with body satisfaction and self-esteem. Subjective passive use, however, was related positively to depression. Subjective active use was also positively related to depression. We discuss the implications of these findings, given the observed differences in the relationships as a function of the type of Instagram use measurement.