2025 Undergraduate Research Showcase
Online Interactions and Men's Well-Being
Document Type
Student Presentation
Presentation Date
4-15-2025
Faculty Sponsor
Dr. Matthew Genuchi
Abstract
Online platforms offer men significant opportunities for social support and friendship, comparable to those found offline. However, the precise link between online social connections and men's mental well-being remains unclear. While quantitative studies reveal a weak positive correlation between the number of online friends and well-being, they don't explain the nuanced ways these connections affect men's mental health. This study aims to address this gap by using a mixed-methods approach to explore how online social interactions influence men's perceived mental well-being. The study hypothesizes that active engagement in meaningful online interactions—characterized by self-disclosure, emotional support, and shared interests—will correlate with higher well-being, regardless of the number of online friends. Data will be gathered through a survey incorporating standardized scales along with open-ended questions. This approach will provide both statistical data and rich qualitative insights into men's experiences with online relationships. Ultimately, this research will contribute to a more nuanced understanding of how online relationships impact men's mental health, informing the development of targeted interventions and support systems to promote well-being in the digital age.
Recommended Citation
Phipps-Gallegos, Montoya and Genuchi, Matthew, "Online Interactions and Men's Well-Being" (2025). 2025 Undergraduate Research Showcase. 160.
https://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/under_showcase_2025/160