The impact of human interactions in the digital space on mental health and interpersonal relationships

English Abstract

This study examines the impact of digital interactions on mental health and interpersonal relationships among young people aged 18 to 35. A survey of 130 participants from Tehran found that 78% felt that online interactions increased their sense of belonging, while 62% believed that excessive use of social media led to anxiety and depression. The sample consisted of approximately 92 men and 75 women, mostly aged 18 to 24. The Digital Interaction Questionnaire was used to measure factors such as sense of belonging, social support, anxiety, depression, and relationship quality, demonstrating high validity and reliability. Data analysis with SPSS revealed significant differences in perceptions of social support by gender and a strong correlation between sense of belonging and self-esteem. The findings indicate a complex relationship between digital interactions and mental health, highlighting both positive effects, such as improved communication, and negative consequences, such as increased anxiety. These results emphasize the need to promote healthy digital interaction practices among young people to reduce the adverse effects of social media while increasing its benefits.