Loneliness in the Age of Social Media: Exploring the Paradox of Hyperconnectivity

Abstract

The present study examined the relationship between social media use and loneliness, with particular emphasis on usage patterns, social comparison, and individual vulnerability factors. The study was significant in addressing the paradox of hyperconnectivity, where increased digital interaction may coexist with heightened emotional isolation. Grounded in prior research highlighting the psychological risks of passive social media engagement and upward social comparison, the study aimed to test direct, mediating, and moderating mechanisms linking social media use to loneliness. A quantitative, cross-sectional correlational design was employed, and data were collected from approximately 300 young adults aged 18–35 years using standardized self-report measures. Social media use (active and passive), loneliness, social comparison, and self-esteem were assessed through validated scales. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, multiple regression analyses, and mediation and moderation analyses via Hayes’ PROCESS macro. The results indicated a significant positive association between overall social media use and loneliness (r = .42, p < .01), with passive use emerging as a stronger predictor (β = .38, p < .001) than active use. Social comparison partially mediated the relationship between social media use and loneliness, while age, gender, self-esteem, and baseline loneliness significantly moderated emotional outcomes. The findings suggested that social media’s impact on loneliness was shaped not only by frequency of use but also by cognitive processes and individual vulnerabilities. Despite its contributions, the study was limited by its cross-sectional design, reliance on self-report data, and use of convenience sampling. Future research was recommended to employ longitudinal and cross-cultural designs, examine platform-specific behaviors, and explore protective factors such as social support and digital literacy.