A Review of Gender Differences in How Social Media Use Affects Self-Esteem

Abstract

Social media (SM) is fun and games until it starts to affect one’s everyday life. In recent years, there has been a spike in SM use. Although there is some research online, more still has to be done to find the gender differences in how SM affects self-esteem. SM affects men and women differently, with women experiencing more of the negative side of impact on self-esteem. This paper is a literature review, pulling from past work to answer two central questions. Are there gender differences in how SM use (SMU) affects self-esteem? How are these relationships moderated by family intimacy and parental support? Individuals use SM for different reasons. Whether it is for relationships, support, or self-presentation, SM may present pressure and beauty standards. When these ideals aren’t met, there is a social and health impact on both men and women. The impact may be elevated by family intimacy and parental support, with the family environment influencing one’s SMU. In adolescence, it has been shown that women experience higher rates of depression and anxiety due to SM. Users may experience life dissatisfaction and negative health impacts. Men and women are both impacted greatly by the pressure to meet gender and societal ideals reflected through SM.