Effects of Instagram addiction on mood variables in a youth population: a systematic review

abstract

The addictive use of Instagram among young people and the risks associated with it have become a social and public health concern. Despite the psychological consequences associated with this social network, there is still a lack of systematic reviews on the topic. Our aim is to review the current state of the literature on the negative emotional consequences associated with the addictive use of Instagram among young people. The results of the 21 selected articles indicate that excessive Instagram use leads to emotional problems (depression, anxiety, stress, etc.), especially when negative social comparison acts as a moderator and people use Instagram passively. In contrast, users with higher self-esteem experienced fewer symptoms of emotional distress. The findings described in this review provide a theoretical basis for developing interventions that are more tailored to the needs of this group. However, the studies reviewed are cross-sectional in nature. Therefore, more longitudinal and experimental research is needed to provide more robust findings on Instagram use.

Keywords:

Excessive use, addiction, Instagram, mood, youth, adolescents.

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Authors

María Sierra-Carot - Dpto de Psicología Básica, Facultad de Psicología y Logopedia, Universitat de València, España
Patricia Motos-Sellés - Dpto de Psicología Básica, Facultad de Psicología y Logopedia, Universitat de València, España
José Antonio Giménez-Costa - Dpto de Psicología Básica, Facultad de Psicología y Logopedia, Universitat de València, España
María Teresa Cortés-Tomás - Dpto de Psicología Básica, Facultad de Psicología y Logopedia, Universitat de València, España

DOI

https://doi.org/10.54108/10117