Online social networking and psychological experiences: The perceptions of young people with mental health difficulties

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study explores the interaction between online social networking experiences and wellbeing in 12 young people accessing mental health services. MethodsData from semi-structured interviews was analysed using Grounded Theory methodology. Results“Threats and judgement” and “connection and support” were experienced by adolescents, facilitated by having continuous access to a vast social network. These experiences influenced adolescents' psychological wellbeing, mediated by their responses to threat and judgement and maintaining “safe sharing” with their network. Social network use was conceived as a gamble of balancing its potentially positive and negative impact in a culture in which social network use appears to be unavoidable. ConclusionsThe findings indicate the importance of routine assessment and formulation of social networking use in understanding adolescents' psychological distress. Furthermore, a range of opportunities exist for clinicians to utilise the anonymity and peer support that social networks offer to broaden the range of mental health services offered to young people.