Academic stress as a predictor of problematic social media use among upper secondary school students in Jalisco, Mexico
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35622/j.rie.2026.03.005Keywords:
mental health, mental stress, secondary school student, social media, student behaviorAbstract
Problematic social media use among adolescents is a relevant psychoeducational concern because of its association with emotional distress, self-regulation difficulties in the school context, and possible experiences of academic stress. Therefore, the objective of the study was to analyze academic stress as a statistical predictor of problematic social media use among upper secondary school students. A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional study with a correlational-predictive scope was conducted with a non-probability sample of 901 students from a public upper secondary school in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. The Systemic Cognitive Inventory SV-21 and the Social Media Addiction Questionnaire were administered. The results showed positive, although low, correlations between the total score for problematic social media use and manifestations of distress (rho = .218, p < .01), as well as stressful situations (rho = .133, p < .01). In contrast, coping resources correlated negatively with this score (rho = −.091, p < .01). In the multiple regression model, manifestations of distress positively predicted problematic social media use (β = .221, p < .001), whereas coping resources negatively predicted it (β = −.084, p < .010). It is concluded that problematic social media use should not be understood as an isolated behavior, but rather as a phenomenon linked to the subjective experience of academic stress and the resources available to cope with it. Strengthening school-based initiatives focused on psychoeducational support, stress management, and the promotion of healthy digital habits is recommended.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ignacio Pérez, Juan Caldera, Oscar Reynoso, Samuel Portillo, Patricia Martín del Campo (Autor/a)
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