Although Facebook has the potential to meet our belonging needs, it can also be a source of stress and ostracism. In Study 1, we found that participants who abstained from Facebook for five days experienced reduced cortisol levels, whereas those who used Facebook as normal experienced increased life satisfaction. In our subsequent studies, we examined the effects of posting content on Facebook and receiving a response from others on belonging and related needs. In Study 2, participants who were allowed vs. not allowed to share information for 48 hours had higher levels of belonging and meaningful existence. In Study 3, participants who had been randomly assigned to receive vs. not receive feedback on a status update had higher levels of belonging, self-esteem, meaningful existence, and control. These findings indicate that Facebook can satisfy needs, but can also create stress and threaten needs when shared information is ignored by others.
