Internet use and residents' social class identification: The social trust perspective

The rapid expansion of the digital economy significantly influences social dynamics, prompting an increased interest in residents' social class identification, which is a crucial factor in promoting societal well-being. How to enhance residents' social class identity in the rapidly changing internet environment is a key concern and focus of current psychological research. This study aims to investigate the impact of internet use on residents' social class identification and explores the mediating role of social trust. Using data from the 2021 Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS2021), the study employs ordered probit regression models and instrumental variable techniques to address potential endogeneity and ensure robustness. The findings reveal that internet use positively affects residents' class identification, partly through enhancing social trust. Moreover, this effect varies across demographic groups, with stronger influences observed among males, older adults, married individuals, and those with higher education levels. These results underscore the importance of integrating digital technologies and social trust-building strategies to foster residents' social identity in the digital age.