As everyone knows, the use of social networks can be addictive and can lead to excesses. However, a study conducted in the United States estimates that completely stopping their use would not change much in people's well-being.
In 2017, a study estimated that social media users were 66% more likely to develop depressive symptoms can sometimes lead to suicide. As of early 2019, other research indicated that heavy use of social media could lead to addiction comparable to drug addiction.
So it has become quite common to see some users stop logging in suddenly. The goal? Simply feel better. However, according to a new study published in the journal Media Psychology on November 5, 2019, this kind of decision would ultimately have very little effect on mood and well-being.
Researchers at the University of Kentucky (USA) followed several people who stopped using social networks. All participants completed a daily diary to assess their feelings of loneliness and well-being on a daily basis, among other things. However, no significant change was noted in their mood and well-being. In addition, observations were made after 14, 21 and 28 days. However, the abstinence time also seems to have no effect.
The study leaders reported that these results were consistent with trivial effects detected in other cross-sectional research. According to them, the whole questions the causal relationship between social media and daily well-being.
Researchers have also criticized the very recent practice of dopamine fasting (or dopamine fasting), consisting of doing without anything that can be a source of pleasure and stimulation. However, some doctors believe that this pleasure hormone could also be secreted during the anticipation of a reward. An example was given of a person refraining from using social media but thinking about their next connection, their next post, etc. Indeed, it is not really a feeling that can bring something positive to well-being.
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