Examining the role of psychological flexibility and unconditional self-acceptance as mediators in the relationship between new media literacy and psychological wellbeing among Gen Z.

Abstract

Background: This study explores the relationship between new media literacy (NML), psychological flexibility (PF), and unconditional self-acceptance (USA) in shaping the psychological wellbeing (PWB) of Generation Z.

Materials and methods: With a focus on university students aged 18 to 25, this research employed a purposive sampling method to gather data from 233 participants through online surveys. The online survey consists of four sections: New media literacy scale, Acceptance and action questionnaire (AAQ-II), The Psychological Wellbeing Scale (PWBS), and Unconditional Self-Acceptance Questionnaire (USAQ).

Results: Statistical analysis using the Bootstrap method revealed that NML significantly impacts PWB both directly and indirectly through serial mediation by PF and USA. The results revealed a significant indirect effect of NML on PWB through PF and USA (b = -0.013, t = 1.800). Furthermore, the direct effect of NML on PWB in the presence of the mediators was also found to be significant (b = 0.156, P = 0.002).

Conclusion: There is partial serial mediation of PF and USA on the relationship between NML and PWB. This study revealed the crucial role of MML in enhancing PWB through the serial mediation of PF and USA among Generation Z. These findings suggest the potential of targeted digital literacy programs as effective tools for improving mental health in this digitally immersed generation.