Zoom or In-Person: An Ecological Momentary Assessment Study the Effects of time With Friends and Depressive Symptoms on Affect in Emerging Adults

Abstract

Introduction: Depression is associated with increased negative affect (NA), low positive affect (PA), and interpersonal difficulties. The present study used ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to capture real-time data and explore the links between depressive symptoms, social interactions, and affect. Methods: Emerging adults (N = 86) completed a self-report measure of general depression and dysphoria symptoms, followed by EMA surveys 8 times daily for one week, reporting momentary affect and social context (in-person and virtual interactions). Results: In-person, but not virtual, presence of friends was associated with increased PA overall. Depressive symptoms predicted less time with in-person friends and elevated NA. In-person friends' presence was associated with lower NA only for those low in dysphoria. Discussion: In-person time with friends, but not virtual interactions, appears to be associated with increased PA overall and decreased NA for those lower in depression. Those with greater depressive symptoms may be less responsive to positive stimuli and experience less mood-buffering from friends.