Social Media’s Impact on Ex-Ultra-Orthodox Jews: A Study on Coping Mechanisms and Mental Health
A groundbreaking study conducted by Ben Gurion University sheds light on the impact of social media on ex-Ultra-Orthodox Jews, a population often thrust into the digital world after leaving their insular communities. For many, this represents their first encounter with the pervasive influence of social media, a stark contrast to the limited exposure experienced within the ultra-Orthodox community where less than 20% typically access such platforms. This research delves into how this newly acquired access shapes their coping mechanisms, mental well-being, and overall adjustment to secular life.
The study, conducted in the summer of 2022, surveyed 1,146 ex-Ultra-Orthodox individuals, primarily residing in Israel, with some participants from the United States and other countries. Researchers sought to understand how these individuals utilized various social media platforms, including TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp, and other instant messaging tools, to navigate the challenges and stressors associated with their transition. The focus was on identifying the dominant coping strategies employed, categorizing them as escapism, avoidance, or problem-solving, and examining the correlation between these strategies and their mental health outcomes.
The findings reveal a complex relationship between social media use and coping mechanisms. Escapism emerged as the most prevalent strategy, with ex-Ultra-Orthodox individuals turning to social media as a means of temporary distraction from their challenges. Problem-solving approaches also played a significant role, indicating that some utilized social media to actively seek information, connect with support networks, and address the practical challenges they faced. Avoidant coping, characterized by suppressing thoughts and emotions related to stressors, was the least common strategy observed.
The study highlights the implications of these coping mechanisms for mental well-being. While problem-focused coping through social media has been linked to positive mental health outcomes, the research found a negative correlation between escapist and avoidant coping and measures of mental health and resilience. Individuals relying heavily on these strategies experienced lower levels of well-being, suggesting that while social media can offer a platform for connection and problem-solving, its use as a means of avoidance or escape can be detrimental.
The research underscores the unique vulnerability of ex-Ultra-Orthodox individuals navigating the digital landscape. Their lack of prior exposure to social media necessitates targeted educational interventions to promote healthier usage patterns. This is particularly crucial given the significant life changes they undergo and the potential for social media to either exacerbate or mitigate the stress associated with these transitions. The study calls for greater awareness and resources to support this population in developing effective coping strategies and fostering positive mental health outcomes.
Dr. Yossi David, head of the Communication and Social BIAS at Ben Gurion University’s Department of Communication Studies, emphasizes the novelty of this research, stating that "To our knowledge, there is currently no research on the role of social support and social media use among those who disaffiliate from high-cost religions." The study’s findings pave the way for future research and targeted interventions aimed at equipping ex-Ultra-Orthodox individuals with the skills and support necessary to navigate the digital world in a healthy and empowering manner. This research has implications for supporting individuals transitioning from any insular community and underscores the need for digital literacy education.