Massachusetts Users Split on Personal Impact of Social Media But Most See Negative Effect for Society 5/5/2026

Authors

• UNH Survey Center

Abstract

Social media users in Massachusetts report using social media platforms just over 18 hours per week and nearly half want to use social media less often. YouTube is the most commonly used platform, though the small number who use Snapchat and Discord report using it quite frequently. Democrats and those under the age of 35 report being the most prolific users of social media. Three in eight users in the state believe social media has a negative effect on their mental health, but a plurality of the heaviest social media users say it improves their mental health. Bay Staters are split on the effect of social media on creativity and personal relationships, but most believe it has a detrimental effect on productivity and mental health, along with a negative effect on society in general.

Department

Bay State Poll

Publication Date

5-5-2026

Document Type

Report

Recommended Citation

UNH Survey Center, "Massachusetts Users Split on Personal Impact of Social Media But Most See Negative Effect for Society 5/5/2026" (2026). All UNH Survey Center Polls. 957.
https://scholars.unh.edu/survey_center_polls/957