A Study on the Effects of SNS Use on Life Satisfaction through Social Support and Social Comparison

In recent years, Social Networking Services (SNS) have deeply infiltrated people's daily lives, altering communication methods and modes of social interaction. SNS provides a platform where individuals can share information, connect with friends and family, and foster the formation of new relationships. These changes can have either positive or negative effects on an individual's psychological well-being and life satisfaction. Specifically, SNS can serve as a source of social support, but it can also promote social comparison, which may negatively impact self-esteem. This study aims to analyze the impact of SNS usage on an individual's subjective life satisfaction through two aspects: social comparison and social support. Based on prior research, SNS usage was classified into three characteristics: self-expression, checking updates from acquaintances, and communication with acquaintances. A survey was administered, collecting 207 samples, and the hypotheses were tested through empirical analysis using Smart PLS 4.0 (Structural Equation Modeling Package) and SPSS 23.0. The following conclusions were drawn: First, all three factors—self-expression, checking updates from acquaintances, and communication with acquaintances—were found to influence social support, leading to the acceptance of H1. Second, checking updates from acquaintances did not have an effect on social comparison, resulting in the rejection of H2-2. Thus, H2 was partially accepted. Third, social support was found to positively influence an individual's life satisfaction, leading to the acceptance of H3. Fourth, social comparison did not positively influence life satisfaction, resulting in the rejection of H4.