Impact of social media on the psychological well-being of rural Youth- A systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis

Abstract

The rise of social media has profoundly influenced the mental health of young people, including rural youth who face unique socio-economic challenges. This systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis investigates the impact of social media on the psychological well-being of rural youth, examining both positive and negative aspects. Social media fosters social connectivity and educational access but also contributes to anxiety, depression and low self-esteem through social comparison and cyberbullying. A systematic search of peer-reviewed articles from 2019 to May 2024 was conducted using the Scopus database. Inclusion criteria focused on studies addressing the psychological effects of social media on rural youth. Data were analyzed using Bibliometrics, an R package for bibliometric analysis, to identify trends, collaborations and key themes. The findings highlight the dual nature of social media’s impact. While it provides opportunities for interaction and access to resources, excessive or maladaptive use, particularly exposure to idealized content and cyberbullying, poses significant mental health risks. Rural youth are especially vulnerable due to isolation and limited access to mental health support. Understanding this nuanced role is vital for designing interventions that maximize social media’s benefits while mitigating risks, promoting the psychological well-being of rural youth in the digital age.