Content overview: “Compulsive Social Media Use Tied to Fear of Relying on Others, Study Finds”. 21, 2026, in PLOS One suggests that compulsive social media use may be driven by a need for closeness combined with a fear of depending on others in face-to-face relationships. Researchers Chris Bjornsen and Allen Harbaugh of Longwood University in the U.S. found that people who compulsively use social media often want reassurance and connection but avoid real-life reliance on others.
This pattern may explain why some individuals turn to digital platforms for social interaction while struggling with in-person intimacy. The findings highlight the psychological complexities behind excessive social media habits, which could inform mental health interventions and public awareness campaigns. As digital communication continues to grow, understanding these underlying fears becomes increasingly important for promoting healthier online and offline relationships. For the complete material, the listing points back to the source inside the network.