10.3928/02793695-20090201-02

Vollständiger Abstract

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<h4>Purpose</h4>Rates of depression and anxiety in transition-aged youth (TAY) are increasing rapidly. This increase has occurred concurrently with the rise of social media (SM). Current knowledge is uncertain of the effect of SM on mental health, revealing a critical gap.<h4>Method</h4>The current interpretative phenomenological study explored the SM perceptions of TAY with mental health disorders. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 participants. Open coding was performed prior to thematic analysis.<h4>Results</h4>Five themes emerged: <i>Sharing to Find a Supportive Community</i>; <i>Acknowledging Negative Influences on Mental Wellness</i>; <i>Disengaging Through Passive Use</i>; <i>Creating Distance to Achieve Wellness</i>; and <i>Internalizing Stigma</i>.<h4>Conclusion</h4>TAY perceive SM as fostering community and entertainment, and as increasing anxiety and inspiring shame. TAY believe the benefits of SM outweigh the negatives and report no intention to decrease use. Findings are beneficial to psychiatric-mental health nurses, identifying stigmas that may influence decisions to seek care. Potential societal effects include stunting development and significant avoidance of political discourse.

Abstract: PubMed · Datensatz