Negative effects of social networking sites : a literature review

The popularity of social networking sites (SNSs) has boomed over the past decade as the websites provide platforms for people to connect with each other and obtain entertainment gratification. The unique features of the websites and evolution of mobile technologies contribute to attract more people around the world to join SNSs. While engage in social networking use can benefits people, there are potential negative consequences that social networking can bring. The purpose of this paper is to review negative effects of SNS use upon individuals’ psychological, behavioral and social aspects. Negative effects of social networking have been found on individuals’ well-being, body image concern, disordered eating, risk behavior and romantic relationship. Factors that lead social network use to bring negative effects on individuals including time spent and usage pattern, social comparison, age as well as gender are discussed, followed by limitation in the existing literatures and future research directions. As a conclusion, since SNSs is constantly evolving and its users continue to rise steadily, understanding its negative effects and mechanisms can raise awareness among users.Bachelor of Art