Resumen

SANDOVAL-OBANDO, Eduardo et al. Impact of the Infodemia on the Mental Health of Young University Students in Temuco (Chile): An Exploratory Study. ReHuSo [online]. 2025, vol.10, n.2, pp.121-135.  Epub 05-Dic-2025. ISSN 2550-6587.  https://doi.org/10.33936/rehuso.v10i2.6622.

Social media use by emerging adults increased during the pandemic, explained in part by the implementation of prolonged periods of confinement and physical distancing. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to understand the impact of the infodemic on the mental health of young people belonging to a Private University in Temuco (Chile), mediated using social media. Methodologically, a qualitative approach was adopted through an exploratory, cross-sectional and non-experimental design. The non-probabilistic and intentional sample was made up of 16 students (62.5% women and 37.5% men) belonging to a Private University in Temuco (Chile), with an average age of 22 years, residing in urban (68.75%) and rural (31.25%) contexts respectively. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews, whose stories were systematized through content analysis. The results showed that participants used social media for communication and entertainment. However, they usually prefer face-to-face contact over virtuality. Furthermore, it was observed that the problematic use of social media generates confusion and anxiety, establishing the infodemic as an emerging phenomenon. Finally, those young people who used social media significantly reported feelings of loneliness and lack of social support, reaffirming the need for future research on this topic.

Palabras clave : Social networks; infodemic; emerging adulthood; self-concept; mental health..

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