The Impact of Social Media Silent Treatment on Attachment Style and Interpersonal Anxiety

Authors

  • Rameha Imran Bs Clinical Psychology, GIFT University, Gujranwala
  • Aroodha Bs Clinical Psychology, GIFT University, Gujranwala
  • Reeha Shahid Bs Clinical Psychology, GIFT University, Gujranwala
  • Nayyab Naeem Bs Clinical Psychology, GIFT University, Gujranwala
  • Faiz Aman Bs Clinical Psychology, GIFT University, Gujranwala
  • Ayesha Bs Clinical Psychology, GIFT University, Gujranwala
  • Daud Afzal Lecturer of Psychology, Department of Humanities and Social Sciences

Abstract

The rapid expansion of social media has transformed interpersonal communication while also introducing new forms of relational stress, such as social media silent treatment, where individuals experience being ignored or excluded online. The present study aimed to examine the impact of social media silent treatment on interpersonal anxiety and to explore the moderating role of attachment style among young social media users. Using a correlational research design, data were collected from 50 university students aged 18–25 years through self-report measures, including the Cyber-Ostracism Scale, Adult Attachment Style Scale, and Interpersonal Anxiety Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, regression analysis, and one-way ANOVA in SPSS. The findings revealed a weak but significant positive relationship between social media silent treatment and attachment anxiety, while the direct relationship between social media silent treatment and interpersonal anxiety was weak and statistically insignificant. Regression analysis indicated a modest predictive effect of social media silent treatment on interpersonal anxiety. Overall, the results suggest that attachment style, particularly insecure attachment, influences how individuals perceive and respond to online exclusion. The study highlights the importance of considering attachment patterns when understanding the psychological effects of digital interactions and underscores the need for interventions that promote healthier coping strategies in online communication.

Keywords: Social Media Silent Treatment, Cyber-Ostracism, Attachment Style, Interpersonal Anxiety, Online Social Exclusion

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Published

2026-03-08

How to Cite

Rameha Imran, Aroodha, Reeha Shahid, Nayyab Naeem, Faiz Aman, Ayesha, & Daud Afzal. (2026). The Impact of Social Media Silent Treatment on Attachment Style and Interpersonal Anxiety. `, 5(01), 1847–1855. Retrieved from https://assajournal.com/index.php/36/article/view/1479

Issue

Vol. 5 No. 01 (2026): Advance Social Science Archive Journal

Section

Articles

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