Impact of Social Media Usage and Cyberbullying on Adolescent Mental Health: The Mediating Role of Social Isolation in Pakistan

Abstract

This paper examines the relationship between social media use and mental health among Pakistani adolescents, focusing on the mediating role of social isolation. The study utilized a sample of 300 high school students to explore how the frequency and types of social media interactions, combined with exposure to cyberbullying, are associated with mental health outcomes. Utilizing a cross-sectional design and structural equation modeling, the results indicate that increased social media usage and exposure to cyberbullying correlate with deteriorating mental health outcomes. Furthermore, social isolation serves as a significant mediator in this relationship, implying that adolescents who experience heightened social isolation due to these factors are more likely to report poorer mental health. These findings underscore the urgent need for interventions that mitigate the adverse effects of social media and cyberbullying on adolescent mental health, emphasizing the development of socially connected and resilient youth. The study contributes to the growing body of literature on the psychosocial effects of digital interactions and offers valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and mental health practitioners in Pakistan. Recommendations include the implementation of educational programs that promote healthy social media use and the establishment of support systems for cyberbullying victims. Limitations of the study include its cross-sectional design, which limits causal inferences, and the reliance on self-reported data, which may introduce bias. Future research should consider longitudinal designs to better understand causal relationships and explore additional mediating factors.