The Impact of Culture Factors on the Relationships between Social Media, Self-Esteem, and Life Satisfaction among College Students between the United States and China
This study explores the influence of cultural factors on the relationships between social media use, self-esteem, and life satisfaction among college students in the United States and China. It employs a qualitative research design, utilizing in-depth interviews and questionnaires to examine how cultural differences shape social media engagement and psychological outcomes. The findings reveal that individualistic and collectivistic cultural orientations lead to distinct patterns of social media use, emotional support, and life satisfaction. While American students emphasize self-expression and social comparison, Chinese students prioritize collective harmony and emotional connection through social media. Despite cultural differences, common factors such as academic success and social bonds were identified as key contributors to life satisfaction. This research underscores the importance of cultural context in understanding social media’s impact on psychological well-being and suggests directions for future cross-cultural studies.
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