Exploring the Relationships Between Social Media Use, Materialism, Emotional Intelligence and Self Esteem Among Young Adults

Abstract

This quantitative study investigated the complex connections between social media use , emotional intelligence, self-esteem, and materialism among young adults. A sample of 212 Indian participants aged 18–25, completed standardized questionnaires assessing these constructs, and data were analyzed using correlation, regression, moderation, and mediation analyses. Results showed no significant direct association between social media use and either emotional intelligence or self-esteem, challenging prevalent assumptions about negative psychological impact of social media. A notable positive correlation was identified between emotional intelligence and self-esteem, aligning with prior research. Unexpectedly, social media use exhibited a weak negative correlation with materialism, suggesting that increased exposure may not inherently promote materialistic values as commonly assumed. Further, emotional intelligence significantly moderated the connection between social media use and self-esteem, indicating its potential role as a protective factor. The study discovered that materialism serves as a mediator in the relationship between social media usage and self-esteem. These results highlight the complex psychological effects of social media, shaped by individual differences and contextual factors. The study adds to the ongoing discussion on digital behavior and psychological well-being and emphasizes the need to consider personal and cultural differences in understanding digital behavior, calling for future research to explore strategies that enhance psychological resilience in diverse online settings.