European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIAL MEDIA USE AND STRESS

S. Parijatham*, S. A. Bavatharini, P. R. Devaki and P. Saikumar

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The popularity of social media is increasing day by day. Thus the level of addiction and dependence on social media also increases resulting in adverse effects. Previous studies revealed that social media addicts experience negative emotions more than positive emotions and they also adapt maladaptive coping strategies to deal with stresses. Thus social media could be a new source of psychological stress. This study was conducted in 150 students of Sree Balaji Medical College to find out if there is any relationship between social media usage (Facebook) and stress levels. Aim: The main objective is to determine the relationship between social media usage and stress levels among medical students. Methodology: A cross- sectional study was conducted in a sample of 150 medical students of SBMCH. The participants ranged from ages 18 to 21 yrs. They were made to fill out Questionnaires measuring their social media usage and stress levels. For measuring stress levels, Perceived stress scale (PSS) was used and for social media usage, Bergen’s Facebook Addiction Scale (BFAS) was used. Result: Results showed that increased usage of facebook had mild impact on the level of stress. [r=0.234626;p=0.003853]. Males are more prone to be affected. Conclusion: We find evidence supporting a relationship between Social media use and stress levels.

Keywords: Social Media, Addiction, Stress, Facebook, Medical Students.