The scientists headed by Dr. Phillip Ozimek from the Faculty of Psychology at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, hired 1,230 individuals for their online study. In order to get involved, participants needed to utilize a minimum of one social networks channel a minimum of when a week. Typically, the individuals specified that they invested simply over 2 hours a day on social networks.
The research study group utilized 6 various surveys to figure out the degree to which the individuals had a materialistic mindset and tended to compare themselves with others, whether they utilized social networks more actively or passively, whether they were addicted to social networks, how stressed out and how pleased they were with their lives.
Down spiral set in movement
“The information revealed that a more powerful materialistic technique goes together with a propensity to compare oneself with others,” explains Phillip Ozimek. This contrast is really simple to make on social networks, mainly through passive usage, i.e. by taking a look at the material published by other users. Materialism and passive usage were likewise connected to addicting usage of social networks. “By this we imply, for instance, that users are continuously thinking of the particular channels and fear that they are losing out on something if they are not online,” discusses Phillip Ozimek. This in turn results in signs of poorer psychological health, i.e. tension. The last link in the chain is minimized life fulfillment. “Social media is among 6 stepping stones to distress,” concludes Phillip Ozimek.
Social network draws in and types materialists
“Overall, the research study supplies more proof that using social networks is connected with dangers, specifically for individuals with an extremely materialistic state of mind,” states the psychologist. This is especially distressing, due to the fact that social networks can activate and increase materialistic worths, for instance through (influencer) marketing. At the exact same time, the platforms draw in materialists anyhow, as they are an ideal method to please lots of materialistic requirements.
“It’s absolutely an excellent concept to be knowledgeable about the quantity of time you invest in social networks and to minimize it,” advises Phillip Ozimek. He encourages versus quiting Social Media totally. “If you did, you’re most likely to overcompensate.” The research study group likewise recommends tape-recording materialism and social networks usage in clients going through treatment for psychological health conditions. “While these aspects are typically unimportant, they can be a beginning point for extra interventions that clients can try in your home.”