One size doesn’t fit all: forms of social technology differentially predict distress

Abstract

The current study explored diverse forms of social technology and their corresponding links to distress and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. A multinational sample of 302 adults in the United States, Mexico, and Japan self-reported on their use of various forms of social technology, psychological distress, and happiness. Results revealed cultural differences in the amount of social technology use (Mexicans highest, Japanese lowest). While total social technology use positively predicted both distress and happiness, specific forms of social technology differentially predicted distress and happiness. Videoconferencing was associated with lower distress and greater happiness, whereas social media was associated with greater distress and lower happiness. Findings also showed that the use of dating apps was a marginally significant negative predictor of both distress and happiness. These findings suggest that forms of social technology that better mirror in-person interaction may confer greater mental health benefits compared to those that are less naturalistic.