SNS Use, Depression Symptoms and the Moderating Role of Attachment Amongst Emerging Adults

Accumulating research suggests the positive relationship between Social Network Sites (SNS) use and depression symptoms. However, it is still unclear how the relationship between SNS use and depression develops and what are the contributing factors. The aim of the current study was to investigate the relationship between SNS use, symptoms of depression and attachment styles. Additionally, the study tested the moderation effect of insecure attachment on the relationship between SNS use and depression symptoms. A total of 266 participants aged 18-25 years old, students of a public university in Penang, Malaysia completed an online survey containing SNS use self-report, Bergen’s Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS) and Relationship Experiences in Close Relationships – Revised Questionnaire (ECR-R). Findings suggested a significant relationship between SNS use and depression symptoms. Additionally, findings showed that insecure attachment, characterized by attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance, was significantly associated with depression symptoms. It is observed that attachment anxiety was only marginally significant in moderating the relationship between SNS use and depression symptoms. Theoretically, this study suggested the role of attachment as a possible antecedent of depression symptoms, as well as a potential moderator in the relationship between SNS use and depression symptoms. Findings of this study highlight the importance of establishing and nurturing a secure caretaker-child bond which could promote more mental resilience and serve as a buffer to negative SNS use effects.