STRESS, SCREENS, AND SOCIAL MEDIA: UNDERSTANDING DIGITAL FATIGUE AMONG YOUNG ADULTS

Abstract

Social media was created to develop communication, foster connections and form communities with friends, families and like-minded individuals. Today, it has become an integral part of everyone’s lives in the 21st century. Young adults constantly rely on social media for entertainment, communication, information and emotional expression. With digital devices and constant access to the internet, engagement with digital services has significantly increased.

Beyond entertainment, social media is now widely used as a coping mechanism. Many individuals turn to digital platforms to distract themselves and seek comfort during stressful situations. This has been clearly explained by the Uses and Gratifications Theory, mentioning that individuals actively use media to satisfy their specific needs. However, excessive digital exposure results in digital fatigue and emotional exhaustion.