Impact of Social Networking Addiction on Cognitive Failure and Sleep Quality in Young Adults

Abstract

In recent years, social media has become deeply embedded in the everyday lives of young adults. While these platforms offer spaces for connection, self-expression, and entertainment, growing concerns have emerged about their potential impact on psychological well-being. A key area of concern is how excessive social media use affects sleep quality and cognitive functioning. Numerous studies have indicated that increased social networking engagement—especially during nighttime hours—can negatively impact sleep patterns. The constant exposure to blue light, the compulsion to stay connected, and the fear of missing out (FOMO) contribute to delayed sleep onset and reduced sleep duration. For many young adults, bedtime scrolling has become a routine, often at the expense of restorative rest (Levenson et al., 2017; Scott & Woods, 2019). Sleep, in turn, plays a fundamental role in cognitive functioning. Inadequate or disturbed sleep has been associated with issues like impaired memory, decreased attention, and reduced problem-solving abilities (Killgore, 2010). Studies exploring this relationship have found that those who are more active on social media platforms are more likely to report cognitive lapses in daily life. These lapses include forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and increased mental fatigue (Alfonsi et al., 2020). The literature highlights a potentially cyclical relationship: excessive social media use disrupts sleep, and poor sleep leads to cognitive inefficiency, which may further increase digital dependency as a form of coping or distraction. Young adults, who are already navigating academic, social, and emotional challenges, may be particularly vulnerable to this cycle. Overall, the existing body of research emphasizes the need to understand the broader consequences of digital behavior on mental and cognitive health. While social media offers clear benefits, its overuse may come at the cost of cognitive clarity and emotional balance, largely mediated by its interference with sleep.