Digital emotional regulation paradox: a cross-sectional study on mindful technology use moderates the relationship between social media emotional content exposure and psychological resilience

The findings challenge the assumption that reducing digital exposure is the best path to mental health. Instead, the way individuals use technology mindfully and reflectively may matter more than how much they use it. However, the cross-sectional design limits causal interpretation, highlighting the need for longitudinal or experimental research to confirm these pathways. These insights offer practical implications for digital mental health programs, user education, and platform policies.