The article I chose to analyse is ‘Will Using Social Media Benefit or Harm Users’ Self-Esteem?’ by  Yang Han and Feng Yang. This article brings to light the argument that the positive or negative impact social media has on a person’s self-esteem is related to relational-closeness. The article has a strong introduction as the author’s identify the inconsistencies in recent research on the positive or negative impact social media has on a person’s self-esteem. For example, Social support has been seen as boosting self-esteem, and studies have shown a positive link between using social media and one’s self-esteem (Nabi et  al.,  2013;  Tao  &  Cheng,  2018 as cited in Han & Yang, 2023). Yet, in opposition to these discoveries, alternative studies propose that the use of social media may have a negative impact on individuals’ self-esteem (Jan  et  al.,  2017;  Jiang & Ngien, 2020 as cited in Han & Yang, 2023). These recognised inconsistencies are the motivation behind the research conducted by the authors of the article as they aimed to reconcile the contradictory findings.

The article provides detailed descriptions of two studies conducted to determine the relationship between relational-closeness and the impact social media has on a person’s self-esteem. Thus, arriving to the conclusion that a high level of relational-closeness has a positive impact on self-esteem whereas, low level of relational-closeness has a negative impact on self-esteem. The article maintains a critical perspective by outlining and acknowledging the limitations of the research including the use of a wider variety of social media platforms as each have unique features and product positioning and varying market influences.

I agree with the findings from this research article but feel more in depth and detailed research would help to pinpoint and analyse the complex nature of this issue. The article relies on perceived social support and generalises as it is based on Chinese social media platforms. It does not focus on other factors that may impact the relationship between social media and self-esteem. Other factors to consider could include individual differences, personality traits and motivations for using social media. Furthermore, Global perspectives would allow for greater depth and understandings. All these factors could have a colossal impact on how people perceive their self-esteem when interacting on social media. The issue is so complex and multilayered and future research must ensure it continues to explore the multifaceted nature of the impact social media has on people.

References

Han, Y., & Yang, F. (2023). Will Using Social Media Benefit or Harm Users’ Self-Esteem? It Depends on Perceived Relational-Closeness. Social Media + Society, 9(4). https://doi.org/10.1177/20563051231203680