Article

The Impact of Problematic SNS Use and Lifestyle on Mental Health Among Young Adults

Author

Lim, Seungju, Park, Ji-Hyuk

Information

pp. 83~96 / 2026 Vol.34 No.2

Abstract

Objective : This study examined how problematic social network sites use (PSNSU), lifestyle, and executive function (EF) predicted mental health outcomes in young adult digital natives. Methods : Participants were 104 social networking sites (SNS) users aged between 18 and 29 years. Data were collected through online and offline surveys. Structured assessment protocols were used to evaluate problematic SNS use, lifestyle, EF, and mental health. Data analysis was conducted using Python and involved descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, multicollinearity checks, and hierarchical regression analyses.Results : Regression revealed that PSNSU significantly and negatively predicted mental health (β = -0.04, p < 0.01), whereas lifestyle showed a significant positive effect (β = 2.09, p < 0.001). EF did not have a significant impact. These patterns remained consistent even after controlling for demographic variables. The full model explains approximately 25% of the variance in mental health.Conclusion : Findings suggest that problematic SNS use and an unhealthy lifestyle negatively affected the mental health of young adults, whereas the influence of EF was limited. This study highlights the need for multifaceted interventions targeting SNS use and lifestyle habits to promote mental wellbeing in the digital native generation.

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