The Relationship between Social Networking Usage and Mental Health among College Students in Bangalore: A Correlational Study

Abstract

The aim of the study is to understand the relationship between social networking usage and mental health among college students and examine differences between undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG). The study uses quantitative correlational analysis to find relationships between social networking use and mental health utilizing information from 65 participants. Social networking usage and mental health continuum short form (MHC-SF) standardized tools were used for assessment. Findings show a strong positive correlation, demonstrating a good relationship between increasing mental health scores and increased social networking usage. The study also reveals a weak positive correlation between UG and PG students’ use of social networking. UG students display higher use of social networking sites than their PG students. The study also identifies a slight difference in mental health between these student categories, with UG students reporting slightly better mental health. These results support earlier research that examined related relationships and offered higher education institutions and mental health professionals insightful information. This current study might have significant implications for specific interventions, methods, and support mechanisms to preserve and boost college students’ overall well-being by illuminating these intricate relationships. Therefore, an experimental research study is recommended.