Kota (Rajasthan), Jul 29 (PTI) Social media validation has become a key determinant of happiness and self-worth among Generation Z, with many young women feeling anxious, rejected or lonely when their posts fail to receive the expected number of likes, views or comments, according to a sociological study.
The findings emerged from a 25-day study led by Dr Jyoti Sidana, professor in the Department of Sociology at Government Arts Girls College, Kota. The survey covered 141 undergraduate and postgraduate female students from various colleges to examine the psychological and social impact of digital dependence.
According to the findings shared with PTI, 82.9 per cent of respondents said their mood was directly influenced by the number of likes and comments on their social media posts. Another 9.8 per cent said this was true to some extent, while only 7.3 per cent said their emotional state was unaffected by online engagement.
“Likes and views are no longer just numbers for today’s generation. They have become a measure of popularity, identity and social acceptance,” Sidana said.
“When a post fails to generate the expected engagement, many feel less accepted or less significant than their peers. Constant comparison with others’ high-performing content can lead to feelings of inferiority, anxiety and despair,” she added.
The study also found that 61 per cent of respondents felt lonely in real life despite having thousands of followers on social media.
The students said online connections often lack emotional depth and cannot replace face-to-face relationships built on trust, belonging and emotional support.
Sidana said many young people recognise that real-world interactions provide lasting emotional satisfaction, unlike virtual relationships.
“Social media offers temporary gratification, but relationships formed online cannot stand by you in difficult times or solve real-life problems. That is why many continue to experience loneliness despite being digitally connected,” she said.
The survey found that 48.2 per cent of respondents checked their phones immediately after receiving a notification, while 43.9 per cent said they had no fixed schedule for checking their devices, indicating frequent phone use throughout the day.
Nearly 70 per cent said they wanted to undertake a digital detox by reducing or stopping the use of mobile phones and social media for a period, but were unable to do so.
The study also found that 43.9 per cent believed social media had increased the culture of showing off, while 41.5 per cent felt it affected their real identity. Another 14.6 per cent said it encouraged unnecessary spending.
According to the survey, the pressure to maintain a “perfect image” online was affecting the self-confidence and mental health of young people.
It also found that 61 per cent of respondents felt stressed or upset by negative comments or trolling on social media, while 39 per cent said such remarks did not affect them.
Sidana said Generation Z, the first “digital native” generation to grow up with the internet and social media, enjoyed unprecedented technological opportunities but also faced growing challenges such as anxiety, social comparison, loneliness and digital dependence.
“If a healthy digital balance is not established in time, its impact on mental health and social relationships could deepen further,” she said.
The study recommended regular digital detoxes, greater face-to-face interaction with family and friends, avoiding self-worth based on likes and followers, and maintaining a healthier balance between digital and real life.
“Real relationships and social connections remain the strongest foundation for emotional well-being. Face-to-face conversations, not virtual interactions, provide lasting emotional support,” Sidana said. PTI COR MDO MDO
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