Associations Between Internet-Based Professional Social Networking and Emotional Distress

Abstract

Professional social networking websites are commonly used among young professionals. In light of emerging concerns regarding social networking use and emotional distress, the purpose of this study was to investigate the association between frequency of use of LinkedIn, the most commonly used professional social networking website, and depression and anxiety among young adults. In October 2014, we assessed a nationally representative sample of 1,780 U.S. young adults between the ages of 19-32 regarding frequency of LinkedIn use, depression and anxiety, and sociodemographic covariates. We measured depression and anxiety using validated Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System measures. We used bivariable and multivariable logistic regression to assess the association between LinkedIn use and depression and anxiety, while controlling for age, sex, race, relationship status, living situation, household income, education level, and overall social media use. In weighted analyses, 72% of participants did not report use of LinkedIn, 16% reported at least some use, but less than once each week, and 12% reported use at least once per week. In multivariable analyses controlling for all covariates, compared with those who did not use LinkedIn, participants using LinkedIn at least once per week had significantly greater odds of increased depression (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.31-3.38) and increased anxiety (AOR = 2.79, 95% CI = 1.72-4.53). LinkedIn use was significantly related to both outcomes in a dose-response manner. Future research should investigate directionality of this association and possible reasons for it.

Does LinkedIn cause imposter syndrome? An empirical examination of well‐being and consumption‐related effects

“…Table 1 outlines, to the best of our knowledge, the only three studies that associate either anxiety or depressive feelings with professional SNS usage, such as LinkedIn and Xing. Two of these studies support the idea that professional SNSs can induce depression and anxiety through social comparison, similar to general SNSs (Jones et al, 2016; Ozimek & Bierhoff, 2020). In contrast, Wang et al (2023) found that information overload experienced from viewing content on professional SNSs increases workplace anxiety.…”

Social Media Use and Depression and Anxiety Symptoms: A Cluster Analysis

“…It may be that how one feels in response to social media (ie, Instagram’s image-based or LinkedIn’s professional content) may cause dissatisfaction with oneself and subsequent depressive symptoms. 36,87–91…”

Self-presentation and Psychological Well-being Among Linkedln Users in Indonesia

“…From the 2,885 people who took part in voting on LinkedIn, there were 62% of people who stated that they experienced LinkedIn Fatigue, namely experiencing mental fatigue, feeling anxiety that leads to FOMO, the desire to do work excessively or workaholic, feeling guilty at rest and making themselves feel inferior because they compare yourself with the achievements of others ( [17]; [18]). In a study conducted in 2016 of 1,780 participants, 292 of them used LinkedIn once a week, participants who use LinkedIn have a much greater chance of developing depression than those who do not use LinkedIn, the overall relationship between LinkedIn users and depression is that they have a more significant chance of increasing anxiety [19]. Feeling of fear, anxiety and worry can make it difficult for individuals to master the environment, establish positive relationships and accept themselves, which are important aspects of psychological well-being [20].…”