The Impact of Social Media Use on Soldier Morale: The Mediating Role of Psychological Resilience and Moderating Effect of Mission Length

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between social media use and soldier morale in United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions, with a particular focus on the mediating role of psychological resilience and the moderating effect of mission length. Utilizing a quantitative research approach, the study employs Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using Partial Least Squares (PLS) to analyze data collected from 200 peacekeeping soldiers deployed in various missions. Findings indicate that social media use significantly enhances psychological resilience which in turn positively influences soldier morale. While social media use has a direct effect on morale, psychological resilience serves as a critical mediator. Furthermore, mission length moderates the relationship between social media use and soldier morale and between psychological resilience and soldier morale. The study’s results provide critical insights for military leadership and policymakers to develop balanced social media policies that support mental well-being, resilience, and operational effectiveness in peacekeeping missions.