Relationships between social media addiction, smartphone addiction and life satisfaction among young adults in Malaysia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33736/jcshd.11910.2026Keywords:
satisfaction with life, social media addiction, smartphone addiction, young adults, MalaysiaAbstract
Over the past decade, digital media engagement has intensified markedly, accompanied by growing concern over problematic and addiction-like patterns of technology use. Such patterns have been consistently linked to adverse psychosocial outcomes, including heightened stress, emotional distress, depressive symptoms, and reduced well-being. Young adults may be especially vulnerable, as this developmental stage involves heightened social comparison, evolving self-concepts, and increased reliance on digital technologies for social connection and identity expression. Against this backdrop, the present study examined the associations between Social Media Addiction, Smartphone Addiction, and Satisfaction with Life among young adults in Malaysia. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with N=414 Malaysian young adults aged 19 to 24 years using purposive sampling. The sample was predominantly female (84.5%), with males comprising 15.5%. Data were analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The results revealed a significant negative association between Social Media Addiction and Satisfaction with Life. In contrast, Smartphone Addiction demonstrated a small but positive association with Satisfaction with Life, contrary to the hypothesised negative relationship. These findings emphasise the importance of differentiating technology-related addictive behaviours and suggest prioritising social media in interventions, alongside a context-sensitive approach to smartphone use.
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