Scrolling for a Purpose: A Relationship Between Social Media Use and Meaning in Life With Self‐Concept Clarity as a Moderator

ABSTRACT

This cross‐sectional study examines the relationship between social media use (frequency and goals of use) and the purpose dimension of meaning in life and explores the moderating role of self‐concept clarity (SCC). We hypothesize that while social media offers a wide range of opportunities for identity exploration, purpose in life derived from its content and activities may be especially appealing to individuals who lack a clear and stable sense of self. An online study was conducted on a nationally representative sample of 1113 Polish respondents aged 18–81. The results revealed that while the frequency of social media use was not significantly associated with purpose in life, information‐seeking and self‐presentation goals positively predicted it. Furthermore, the positive relationship between social media use and purpose in life was stronger among individuals with low and medium levels of SCC. Finally, socioeconomic status and age further moderated the role of SCC in the associations of self‐presentation and social interaction goals with purpose in life. We conclude that social media may shape purpose in life, especially when used for information seeking and self‐presentation, and particularly for those with low self‐concept clarity. Targeted interventions—rather than restricting social media use—should foster SCC itself—through counseling that supports self‐reflection and value articulation—complemented by media literacy programs and by strengthening offline sources of purpose.