The Effects of Active and Passive Instagram Use on Social Comparison Among Generation Z in Indonesia: Implications on Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3)

Abstract

Instagram has become one of the most dominant social media platforms among Generation Z, particularly due to its visually driven features that encourage continuous exposure to curated content and idealized self-presentations. Such conditions may intensify social comparison processes, which play a crucial role in shaping individuals' self-evaluation, psychological well-being, and mental health outcomes among young people, in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 3). This study aims to examine the effects of active and passive Instagram use on upward and downward social comparison among Generation Z in Indonesia. Employing a quantitative explanatory research design, data were collected from 239 Indonesian Instagram users aged 18–25 years through an online survey. Active and passive Instagram use were measured using adapted behavioral engagement scales, while social comparison tendencies were assessed using upward and downward comparison dimensions. The data were analyzed using multiple linear regression analysis. The results indicate that both active and passive Instagram use significantly influence upward and downward social comparison. Passive Instagram use demonstrates a stronger association with upward social comparison, whereas both usage patterns contribute to downward social comparison. These findings suggest that the psychological impact of Instagram is not solely determined by usage intensity, but also by the manner in which users engage with the platform.