Flüchten mit Facebook

How are social media sites, such as Facebook, used to escape from reality and to forget about one’s own everyday life? Escapist media use is mostly discussed in relation to its negative effects. However, based on qualitative interviews with and a quantitative online survey of Facebook users, this study reveals that escapism is better than its reputation: social media escapism can be a positive coping strategy, fulfilling both hedonic and eudaemonic needs. Individuals who use Facebook for escapist reasons often find out about current affairs through social media and also feel encouraged to participate politically.
Dr. Severina Müller works as a scientific advisor for Presence Switzerland at the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). Her subject areas include media psychology and its effects, as well as public diplomacy and nation branding.