Social media users experience a mix of positive, negative emotions while using these platforms % of social media users who say they makes them feel
Americans are more likely to see social media as providing connections with others than causing negative experiences. While prior Center research has found that exposure to social media content may indirectly make some people feel stressed, Americans say they are more likely to find connection online than to have negative experiences. In a 2018 survey of U.S. social media users, a majority (71%) said they frequently or sometimes see content that makes them feel connected on social media. Fewer said they encountered negative content, though 49% said they frequently or sometimes see things that make them feel depressed and 31% said they frequently or sometimes see content that makes them feel lonely.
Social media users experience a mix of positive,  | negative emotions while using these platforms  | % of social media users who say they  | see content on social media that  | makes them feel  | Frequently  | Sometimes  | NET  | Amused  | 44  | 44  | 88  | Angry  | 25  | 47  | 71 71  | Connected  | 21  | 49  | 69  | Inspired  | 16  | 53  | Depressed  | 13  | 36  | 49  | 24  | Lonely  | 31  | Note: Respondents Survey who did not give an answer or gave other answers are not shown.  | Source Survey of US adults conducted May 29-June 11 2018  | "Public Attitudes Toward Computer Algorithms  | PEW RESEARCH CENTER 