Social Media as a Coping Resource

A Qualitative Study of Mothers Navigating Parenting Stress with Influencer Support

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the influence of symbolic role modeling through social media on mothers’ perceived self-efficacy and coping strategies during their parenting journey. Bandura’s theory of self-efficacy was adopted as the theoretical framework, with symbolic role modeling conceptualized as a vicarious source contributing to the development of self-efficacy beliefs. Using qualitative research design, in-depth interviews were conducted with Pakistani mothers of children of age group one year to ten years who actively engage with social media platforms. The analysis revealed that mothers encounter persistent physical and emotional strain, exacerbated by the demands of multitasking, societal scrutiny, lack of support, and household-related stressors. Amid these challenges, social media role models emerged as a significant source of informal support, guidance, and emotional validation. The data showed that these symbolic figures fulfill three major functions: (1) as problem solvers—offering strategies for conflict resolution, therapeutic engagement, managing perfectionism in parenting, and validating maternal experiences; (2) as educators—promoting emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and a sense of community belonging; and (3) as attention diverters—providing entertainment and mental respite to alleviate stress. Mothers reported that observing and engaging with these role models not only helped them cope with everyday parenting stressors but also enhanced their belief in their parenting capabilities. These findings extend Bandura’s theory by emphasizing the psychosocial and emotional functions of symbolic role modeling in the digital age and highlight the evolving influence of social media in shaping contemporary motherhood practices.