The latest edition of the World Happiness Report focuses on the effects of social media on well-being. In this episode of Live Happy Now, host Paula Felps sits down with Dr. Zeynep Özkök and Dr. Jonathan Rosborough, co-authors of one of the report’s chapters, to unpack their research on internet use, trust, social connections, and emotional well‑being. They reveal why social media affects Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, and Boomers in dramatically different ways, and how online environments are reshaping foundational elements of happiness such as trust, safety, and real‑world social ties.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why the impact of social media on well‑being varies sharply across generations.
- How internet use is linked to declining trust, social comparison, and reduced in‑person connection.
- What researchers believe this means for the future — especially for Gen Z and the emerging Generation Alpha.
Download the World Happiness Report
Learn more about Zeynep
Learn more about Jonathan
Follow along with the transcript.
Don’t Miss a Minute of Happiness!
If you’re not subscribed to the weekly Live Happy newsletter, you’re missing out! Sign up to discover new articles and research on happiness, the latest podcast, special offers from sponsors, and even a happy song of the week. Subscribe for free today!
Interested in advertising or partnering with us? Complete this quick form.
Don’t miss an episode! Live Happy Now is available at the following places:
