Virtual Bonds; Real Emotions: Systematic Review Exploring Online Social Connections and Adolescent Mental Health.

IF 3.9 2区心理学 Q1 PSYCHOLOGY, SOCIAL

Cyberpsychology, behavior and social networking Pub Date : 2025-09-15 DOI:10.1177/21522715251377377

Tyler Prochnow,Rithanya Senthil,Allison Poulos,Meg S Patterson,Jamilia Blake,Philip Massey

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Adolescent mental health issues have been increasing globally, with one in seven youth experiencing mental health disorders. While social connectedness traditionally serves as a protective factor, the widespread adoption of online platforms has fundamentally transformed how adolescents build and maintain social relationships. This systematic review aimed to synthesize existing literature on the relationship between online social connections and mental health among adolescents aged 10-18 years. The review specifically examined how the structure, function, and quality of online interactions influence mental health outcomes, guided by the U.S. Surgeon General's framework on social connection. A systematic search was conducted in January 2024 using PsycINFO, MEDLINE, PubMed, and Web of Science databases. Studies were included if they measured mental health outcomes, assessed online social connection, analyzed relationships between these variables, and focused on adolescents ages 10-18 years. From an initial search of 3,745 articles, 23 met inclusion criteria after screening. The review revealed complex, bidirectional relationships between online social connections and adolescent mental health. Online-only friendships demonstrated a protective function, particularly for vulnerable youth experiencing suicidal ideation. Social capital in online contexts significantly influenced well-being, with higher online social capital associated with positive outcomes, especially in gaming environments. Gender differences emerged in social media effects, with passive use negatively impacting girls. Online social connections present both opportunities and risks for adolescent mental health. While digital platforms can provide valuable support and self-expression opportunities, particularly for vulnerable youth, they also carry risks related to social comparison and inadequate support.

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虚拟债券;真实情绪：探索在线社会联系与青少年心理健康的系统综述。

青少年心理健康问题在全球范围内不断增加，七分之一的青少年患有心理健康障碍。虽然社会联系传统上是一种保护因素，但网络平台的广泛采用从根本上改变了青少年建立和维持社会关系的方式。本系统综述旨在综合10-18岁青少年网络社交与心理健康关系的现有文献。在美国外科医生社会联系框架的指导下，该综述特别研究了在线互动的结构、功能和质量如何影响心理健康结果。系统检索于2024年1月使用PsycINFO、MEDLINE、PubMed和Web of Science数据库进行。如果研究测量了心理健康结果，评估了在线社交关系，分析了这些变量之间的关系，并将重点放在10-18岁的青少年身上，则将其纳入研究。从最初检索的3745篇文章中，筛选后23篇符合纳入标准。这项研究揭示了在线社交与青少年心理健康之间复杂的双向关系。纯网络友谊显示出一种保护功能，尤其是对有自杀念头的脆弱青少年。在线环境中的社会资本显著影响幸福感，较高的在线社会资本与积极结果相关，尤其是在游戏环境中。社交媒体的影响出现了性别差异，被动使用社交媒体对女孩产生了负面影响。在线社交关系为青少年心理健康提供了机会和风险。虽然数字平台可以提供宝贵的支持和自我表达的机会，特别是对弱势青年而言，但它们也存在与社会比较和支持不足相关的风险。

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来源期刊

Cyberpsychology, behavior and social networking PSYCHOLOGY, SOCIAL-

CiteScore

9.60

自引率

3.00%

发文量

123

期刊介绍： Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking is a leading peer-reviewed journal that is recognized for its authoritative research on the social, behavioral, and psychological impacts of contemporary social networking practices. The journal covers a wide range of platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, internet gaming, and e-commerce, and examines how these digital environments shape human interaction and societal norms. For over two decades, this journal has been a pioneering voice in the exploration of social networking and virtual reality, establishing itself as an indispensable resource for professionals and academics in the field. It is particularly celebrated for its swift dissemination of findings through rapid communication articles, alongside comprehensive, in-depth studies that delve into the multifaceted effects of interactive technologies on both individual behavior and broader societal trends. The journal's scope encompasses the full spectrum of impacts—highlighting not only the potential benefits but also the challenges that arise as a result of these technologies. By providing a platform for rigorous research and critical discussions, it fosters a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between technology and human behavior.