Brian Smith
University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA  (Correspondence:  bgsmithphd@gmail.com )
Staci Smith
University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA
Danielle Hallows
Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
Lauren Silva
Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 

Citation: Smith, B.G., Smith, S.B., Hallows, D., & Silva, L. (2024). Social media and adjusting to the new normal: The dichotomies of perceived social media effects. JoCTEC 2024, 6(2), pp. 27-51 DOI: 10.51548/joctec.6.2.2024.02 

Abstract:  Social media’s effects on those who use them have been examined in several domains, including self-expression, social connection, and well-being. However, when examining their effects on mental health, direct correlations have been difficult to establish. This study examines social media effects on a population who was suddenly thrust into extensive social media use. With the pandemic as a backdrop, this study examined social media use among proselyting missionaries during a time when lockdowns and quarantines moved their efforts online. Findings show that social media effects may be best considered as a range of competing dichotomies based on factors such as self-regulation, self-efficacy, and sense of presence. 

Keywords: Communication technology,  Communication technology,  Communication technology