Chasing likes and approval on social media could harm mental health, says academic
PETALING JAYA: The growing dependence on likes, comments and online approval is quietly reshaping how young people measure their self-worth, with an expert saying that excessive reliance on social media validation could have lasting consequences for mental health and emotional wellbeing.
University of Nottingham Malaysia School of Psychology associate professor Dr Siti Khadijah Zainal Badri said research has shown an increasingly negative relationship between self-worth and the pursuit of validation through social media, particularly among young people.
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She said the trend is closely linked to the fear of missing out (Fomo), fuelled by constant exposure to online content that encourages comparisons with others.
“Excessive pursuit of emotional stability through social media validation is a very unhealthy behaviour that can gradually reduce psychological wellbeing and overall quality of life,” she said.
Siti Khadijah said taking a break from social media for several weeks or months could bring noticeable psychological benefits as individuals reconnect with their surroundings and real-life relationships.
She explained that reducing social media use often helps people move away from maintaining a digital presence and become more emotionally and physically engaged in everyday life.
“They start enjoying life and embracing their uniqueness instead of worrying about fitting into social media trends,” she said.
Research on excessive social media use has linked constant exposure to digital stimulation with discomfort, agitation and restlessness. As a result, a period of digital detox may improve concentration, emotional calmness and sleep quality while reducing mental fatigue.
Siti Khadijah added that social media platforms are designed to provide rapid and continuous stimulation, which can contribute to impatience and short attention spans.
“Many individuals have become accustomed to instant stimulation and reward systems.
“Excessive digital engagement can reinforce dopamine-driven rewardseeking behaviours that may not be sustainable in the long run,” she said.
She added that human happiness remains closely tied to meaningful relationships and interaction with the natural world, both of which can be displaced by excessive screen time.
The psychological effects of social media overstimulation are becoming increasingly evident, particularly among young adults and students.
According to Siti Khadijah, growing digital dependence is contributing to higher levels of anxiety, impatience, emotional fragility and critical behaviour.
“In educational settings, we are seeing students becoming less patient with the learning process and struggling with self-control, emotional regulation and resilience,” she said.
She attributed the shift to constant exposure to content promoting immediate gratification over longterm growth and perseverance.
Young adults are especially vulnerable as they remain in crucial stages of emotional and psychological development.
Social comparison, cyberbullying and exposure to distressing content could also contribute to burnout, anxiety and attention difficulties.
The academician said many people report feeling lighter and more at peace after deactivating their social media accounts, as disconnecting helps clear mental clutter.
She explained that this sense of relief comes from no longer having their “mind space” occupied by pressure to keep up with trends, expectations and constant comparisons.
“When people deactivate or limit social media use, they are effectively closing the door to external and unwanted stimuli.
“This creates space for self-reflection and helps them regain control over their thoughts and emotions,” she said.
She said the relief also stems from reduced pressure to compare oneself with others or conform to online expectations.
Siti Khadijah also cautioned that continuous exposure to other people’s lives online could distort perceptions of personal success, relationships and self-worth.
While some public figures can be genuine sources of inspiration, social media often presents highly curated versions of reality that overlook everyday struggles.
“People may unconsciously compare their real lives with other people’s highlight reels.”
She said over extended periods, this could lead to dissatisfaction, low self-esteem and pressure to constantly keep up. She stressed that the impact of social media largely depends on who people follow, what they consume and why they engage with it.
“Ultimately, moderation and mindful decision-making are essential for maintaining healthy digital habits.
“Anything done excessively and without mindful consideration can negatively affect a person’s wellbeing, relationships and quality of life.
“This is what we refer to in research as ‘too much of a good thing’,” she added.
