PARENTAL SEPARATION/DIVORCE AND SOCIAL ANXIETY AS A PREDICTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTION

This study examines the relationship between parental separation/divorce, social anxiety, and social media addiction among adolescents and young adults. Parental separation or divorce can significantly affect children's emotional and psychological well-being, often leading to feelings of insecurity, loneliness, and stress. These experiences may contribute to the development of social anxiety, characterized by fear of social interactions and negative evaluation by others. As a coping mechanism, many individuals with social anxiety turn to social media platforms, where communication may feel less threatening than face-to-face interactions. However, excessive reliance on social media can lead to addictive behaviors, negatively affecting academic performance, mental health, and interpersonal relationships. This study explores how parental separation/divorce influences social anxiety levels and how social anxiety, in turn, contributes to social media addiction. By understanding these relationships, the research aims to provide insights for parents, educators, counselors, and mental health professionals in developing effective interventions that promote healthier coping strategies and psychological well-being among affected youths.