Marciano publishes chapter in Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Psychology
Assistant professor Laura Marciano published a chapter, “Social media and mental health,” in the Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Psychology on Nov. 19. The chapter analyzes the relationship between social media and mental health and further attempts to condense and elaborate on existing literature on the topic.
In the chapter, Marciano discusses that while research on social media and mental health often sparks public concern, studies are nuanced and inconsistent. These effects can be positive, negative, or neutral, depending on context. Well-being isn’t simply “good” or “bad,” it exists on a spectrum, and that one-size-fits-all advice doesn’t work.
Adolescents deserve special attention because they use social media heavily and may be more vulnerable. Researchers also face challenges, like distinguishing normal from problematic use and improving data quality. Despite these complexities, current findings can guide better policies and interventions, while highlighting the need for more rigorous, diverse, and context-sensitive research.
Marciano’s work focuses on digital media use and its effect on adolescents. She also leads the HappyB – Being, Body, and Brain project, which explore links between smartphone and social media use and teen well-being.