Dealing with social media fatigue: A focused study on Gen Z

Social networking sites have emerged as dominant communication tools, offering opportunities for interaction, self-presentation, and leisure, particularly among Generation Z. As the amount of time spent on these platforms continues to increase both globally and within Türkiye, the discussion surrounding social networking sites has expanded to include not only their benefits but also the negative consequences they may have on users. One such adverse effect, often referred to as “social media fatigue,” represents a state of burnout experienced by internet users. The present study seeks to explore the detrimental aspects of social media that contribute to the development of social fatigue in users. To achieve this, in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 university students in Türkiye who are active users of social networking sites. The findings indicate that while the majority of participants reported feeling disengaged from social media interactions and experiencing social media fatigue, they expressed an inability to disconnect due to the anxiety associated with “fear of missing out” (FoMo). Furthermore, social media platforms were found to exacerbate feelings of anxiety in users, stemming from social comparison, information overload, and the prevalence of misinformation. These factors collectively contribute to a sense of fatigue and burnout, particularly within Generation Z. This study highlights the growing need for a deeper understanding of the psychological impacts of social media usage, particularly as they pertain to younger, digitally-native populations.