I have been spending some time trying to understand the association between high levels of Facebook activity and depression IN SOME. I just finished reading (Steers – ‘It’s complicated’: Facebook’s relationship with the need to belong and depression. Current Opinion in Psychology.) This author notes that Facebook activity can have both positive and negative impacts on affect. It seems to me Facebook has a more negative impact on those most needing support. The mechanism might be described as failed expectations – putting yourself out there hoping for support but finding nothing.
Facebook may contribute to this negative feedback experience in unintended ways. Offering simple mechanisms for likes and sharing may create unwarranted expectations. All posts from friends do not end up in the news feed. What variables are used in Facebook making these choices and could this selection process contribute to the failed expectations of the more vulnerable? What does a like indicate – approval of the person or approval of the content and how are likes or the lack of a response interpreted?