Comparison of Social Media Use and Family Support in Individuals With and Without a History of Suicide Attempts

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Suicide is a major public health concern influenced by a complex interaction of psychological, social, and familial factors. Given the increasing role of social media in daily life and the protective function of family support, this study aimed to compare social media use and perceived family support among individuals with and without a history of suicide attempts.

Methodology: This causal-comparative study included all individuals with a history of suicide attempts who were referred to the Social Emergency Services of Semnan Province during the second half of 2025 (n=98), selected through census sampling. Additionally, 100 individuals without a history of suicide attempts were recruited through convenience sampling and matched for age and gender. Data were collected using the Perceived Social Support from Family Scale (FA-PSS), a researcher-developed Mobile Social Network Usage Questionnaire, and the Jahanbani Social Networks and Media Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) in SPSS version 25.

Findings: ANOVA results revealed significant differences between the two groups in perceived family support (F=143.61, p<0.001), with higher family support reported among individuals without a history of suicide attempts. Significant differences were also found in mobile social network usage (F=21.72, p<0.001), indicating greater use among individuals with a history of suicide attempts. Furthermore, significant group differences were observed in the social media usage dimension (F=4.64, p=0.03) and type of social media use (F=4.33, p=0.03). However, no significant difference was found regarding trust in social media users (F=0.57, p=0.44).

Conclusion: The findings suggest that excessive social media use and lower levels of family support are associated with a history of suicide attempts. Strengthening family support systems and promoting healthy patterns of social media use may contribute to suicide prevention efforts and improve mental health outcomes.