Social Media’s Double-Edged Sword: Young Men Navigate Mental Health Challenges and Seek Positive Role Models Online
Social media’s impact on mental health has become a prominent concern, particularly among young people. A recent study by The Goat Agency and YouGov sheds light on the complex relationship between young men and social media, revealing a mix of apprehension and optimism. The research, surveying approximately 4,000 young men aged 18-34 in the UK and US, unveils the anxieties surrounding social media’s influence on mental well-being while also highlighting the potential for positive change and the growing desire for positive online role models. A significant 76% of young men in the UK express worry about social media’s impact on their mental health, yet a nearly equal proportion (66%) remain optimistic about the platform’s potential to become a positive space for young people. This duality underscores the complex and multifaceted role social media plays in the lives of young men.
The study reveals a distinct link between social media usage and mental health concerns. A notable 10% of young men in the UK admit to seeking professional help due to negative experiences on social media. However, the research also indicates a proactive approach among young men to curate healthier online experiences. A quarter (24%) have switched platforms, and over a third (36%) have unfollowed accounts that negatively impact their mental health. These actions demonstrate a conscious effort to mitigate the potential harms of social media and cultivate more positive digital environments. This proactive engagement with social media suggests a desire to harness its benefits while minimizing its drawbacks.
The research delves into the specific concerns young men have about social media’s portrayal of masculinity. A concerning 32% of young British men report a more negative view of men in general due to social media content, with this figure rising to 50% when considering a negative view of the world. This contrasts with 36% of US men in the same age group who hold a more negative view of the world due to social media. Furthermore, over half (55%) of UK men surveyed believe that social media’s depictions of masculinity contribute to societal problems. These findings emphasize the need for more nuanced and positive representations of masculinity within the online sphere.
Despite the challenges, young men are actively seeking positive role models online. The study identifies key qualities valued in these role models, with kindness, empathy, compassion, and openness about mental health ranking highly among both millennials (aged 28-34) and Gen Z (aged 18-27). While Gen Z also values physical fitness, healthy eating, and humor, the emphasis on emotional intelligence and mental well-being transcends generational divides. A significant 69% of UK men aged 18-34 express a desire for more content from positive male role models, with 46% actively seeking such figures online. This proactive search further reinforces the demand for positive and relatable figures in the digital space.
The study highlights the growing influence of online personalities, with influencers garnering a surprising degree of trust among young men. While 52% of UK young men trust mainstream news sources, 40% trust the influencers they follow, rising to 43% among Gen Z. This finding signifies a shift in information consumption patterns, with influencers becoming increasingly relevant sources of information and guidance, particularly for younger generations. This level of trust underscores the potential for influencers to contribute positively to important conversations, including those surrounding mental health and well-being.
The findings of this research present an opportunity for brands and influencers to engage with young men in more meaningful and impactful ways. By promoting positive masculinity, fostering open conversations about mental health, and showcasing relatable role models, social media platforms can evolve into spaces that empower and support young men. The desire for positive content and the trust placed in influencers highlights the potential for creating genuinely impactful campaigns that resonate with this audience. Brands and influencers have a significant role to play in shaping the online landscape and promoting a more positive and supportive environment for young men. By acknowledging the anxieties and aspirations of this demographic, social media can become a force for good in promoting mental well-being and fostering positive self-perception.