Investigating the Relationship Between Social Media and Photo-Editing on Anxiety, Depression and Self-Esteem

The present study examined the relationship between social media engagement (SME) and photo-editing frequency and psychological involvement on anxiety, depression and self-esteem. Research has shown increased social media (SM) usage has a negative impact on individuals mental health. It has been suggested that appearance-related content and societal pressures typically seen on SM may play a role in the negative impacts it can cause. In recent years, photo-editing has become a popular behaviour for SM users to do before posting an image online. The potential effects photo-editing may cause to those using or viewing it are under-researched. A total of 325 participants aged 18-69 years old completed this study. The questionnaires measured their anxiety, depression and self-esteem levels, social media engagement, photo-editing frequency, and psychological involvement/attitudes. Findings from Spearman’s correlation analysis found small, positive effects between SME and photo-editing frequency and psychological involvement on depression and low self-esteem. A small, positive relationship was found with SME and higher levels of anxiety. A moderate, positive relationship was found with higher levels of psychological involvement with photo editing and higher anxiety levels. Follow up multiple regression analysis revealed that psychological involvement with photo-editing was significantly predictive of higher anxiety and depression levels and lower-self-esteem levels. The multiple regression analysis also revealed SME was significantly predictive of lower self-esteem levels. Implications and limitations of this study and recommendations of future research are discussed