“Facebook Depression?” Social Networking Site Use and Depression in Older Adolescents

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the association between social networking site (SNS) use and depression in older adolescents using an experience sample method (ESM) approach. Methods Older adolescent university students completed an online survey containing the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 depression screen (PHQ) and a weeklong ESM data collection period to assess SNS use. Results Participants (N = 190) included in the study were 58% female and 91% Caucasian. The mean age was 18.9 years (standard deviation = .8). Most used SNSs for either 2 hours (n = 16, 8%). The mean PHQ score was 5.4 (standard deviation = 4.2). No associations were seen between SNS use and either any depression ( p = .519) or moderate to severe depression ( p = .470). Conclusions We did not find evidence supporting a relationship between SNS use and clinical depression. Counseling patients or parents regarding the risk of “Facebook Depression” may be premature.