The Influence of User-Generated Eudaimonic YouTube Videos on Well-Being

Abstract

This study examined the relationships of audience exposure to user-generated eudaimonic YouTube videos with subsequent involvement, empathy, perceived depression, and happiness in two studies. This study adapted self-compassion as a moderated mediator to the models. In Study 1, 402 respondents participated in a survey. Results found that user-generated eudaimonic video viewing on YouTube activated involvement but not depression reduction. Self-compassion mitigated the relationship between empathy and depression. In Study 2, with 189 respondents, a positive and significant indirect influence of eudaimonic YouTube video viewing on happiness through involvement and empathy was found. The results demonstrate that user-generated eudaimonic YouTube videos have the potential to improve well-being when users are involved in and empathetic with the video content. The role of user-generated eudaimonic YouTube video viewing in human well-being research was discussed. Future research directions were suggested.