Through a Screen Darkly: Use of Computer-Mediated Communication Predicts Emotional Functioning

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Communication Studies
• Digital Well-being

Background:

• The impact of pervasive computer-mediated communication (CMC) on emotional adjustment remains underexplored.
• Existing research suggests a link between CMC preference and emotional vulnerabilities, with active CMC offering psychosocial benefits over passive forms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between the quality, quantity, and preferences for CMC and emotional competencies (emotion detection, regulation) and well-being (mood, anxiety).
• To differentiate the effects of active versus passive CMC use on emotional functioning.

Main Methods:

• Study 1: Assessed emotion detection (facial morphing task) and CMC quantity/preferences in 123 participants.
• Study 2: Examined active/passive Facebook use and emotional functioning in 32 participants.

Main Results:

• Higher CMC use and preference for casual communication correlated with better emotion detection.
• Increased CMC use and preference for expressing distress were linked to emotion regulation difficulties.
• Active Facebook use was associated with greater emotional well-being, while passive use was linked to less well-being.

Conclusions:

• Preference for and increased use of CMC may relate to heightened emotional sensitivity and regulation challenges.
• Active engagement in CMC, unlike passive consumption, appears to support emotional well-being.