Invisible Social Forces and the Pursuit of Happiness in the Digital Age

• In Event: 30260 - Joint Roundtables: Section on Social Psychology and Section on Sociology of Emotions
  In Refereed Roundtable (90 minute): Table 5: Social Media and Attitudes

Abstract

In an era dominated by digital connectivity, our emotions and behaviors are subtly yet profoundly shaped by invisible social forces. These forces, encompassing societal norms , exert significant influence on how we perceive happiness, success, and self-worth. My research delves into the intersection of social norms and digital platforms, focusing on the pervasive impact of social comparison and conformity. The central question guiding my study is: How do invisible social forces, such as social norms and algorithms, influence individuals’ perceptions of happiness in the digital age? Rooted in foundational sociological and psychological theories, my study draws on Erving Goffman’s Impression Management, Arlie Hochschild’s Emotional Work, and Leon Festinger’s Social Comparison Theory. These frameworks provide a robust lens for analyzing the pressures digital platforms impose on individuals to conform to societal ideals of happiness and success. Platforms like WeChat, Instagram, and TikTok magnify these pressures, transforming personal achievements into sources of dissatisfaction and intensifying the emotional labor required to navigate these dynamics.Employing a qualitative methodology, my research combines a comprehensive literature review with real-world case studies. The first case examines donation behavior in a church WeChat group, where digital transparency and social norms compelled members to contribute more than necessary, illustrating the pervasive role of conformity. The second case explores academic comparison, where a student’s pride in scoring 95 on an exam is diminished upon learning a peer scored 99. This scenario underscores how social media and digital visibility amplify upward comparisons, fostering dissatisfaction even in moments of personal accomplishment.
The contribution of my research is twofold. First, it sheds light on the emotional costs of digital conformity, revealing how invisible social forces erode autonomy and well-being. Second, it offers actionable strategies for fostering resilience, including increased digital literacy and the promotion of authentic interactions.

Author

• Huicong Lin, University of California-Berkeley