A Cross Sectional Study on the Effects of Social Media on Anxiety among Students in University of Cyberjaya

Abstract

Introduction: In this cross-sectional study, University of Cyberjaya students' anxiety levels are examined in relation to their intensity of social media. Understanding the potential consequences on anxiety is crucial for managing mental health issues given the rising popularity of social media use among university students. The study aims to offer valuable information that can guide support and counselling services, encouraging a healthy digital environment and well-being among students at the University of Cyberjaya by examining the relationship between social media use and anxiety. Methods: This is a cross sectional study comprising a total of 306 undergraduate students from five faculties enrolled in University of Cyberjaya, which uses Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and Social Media Intensity Scale as a primary instrument. Results: The prevalence of anxiety among UOC students is 80.72% (n=247). The respondents on social media intensity shows about (50.65%, n=155) claimed that social media is part of their everyday activity and (42.16%, n= 129) claims that they use privacy settings to select parts of their profile to share with others. Finding shows that there is no significant association between social media and anxiety among the students in University of Cyberjaya (p=0.08). Conclusion: The study concluded that among the participating students, there was no statistically significant correlation between social media use and anxiety levels. Further research with a bigger sample size and a longitudinal methodology may be required to further understand the link between social media and anxiety in a university setting.