#ContextMatters! A network tree approach to model the link between social media use and well-being

Use of social networking sites (SNS) has been related to both positive as well as more detrimental outcomes, where effects of SNS use on functioning may be moderated by contextual factors. The coronavirus pandemic provides a context in which intensity of SNS use to stay connected or informed may differentially impact functioning depending on specific contexts of SNS use. This cross-sectional study investigated whether patterns of connectivity between SNS use to stay connected or informed and broader indicators of functioning (social provision, loneliness, internalizing symptoms, and quality of life) differed depending on COVID-19 relevant context factors. We applied network tree analysis on self-report data collected during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic (N = 1433). The unique associations between the constructs of interest differed depending on illness (COVID-19) status and housing condition. Intensity of SNS use, depressive symptomatology, and loneliness were more strongly connected in network models obtained for COVID-19 unaffected individuals. Several unique associations were identified for those living alone, among which an association between SNS use to stay connected and quality of life. This study is the first to demonstrate complex moderation of patterns of connectivity between indicators of SNS use and (dys)functioning, by contextual factors.