Designing Digital Social Connection: A Mobile Application Approach to Supporting Emotional Well-Being

Abstract

The ways in which people connect and communicate online have changed dramatically over the past decade. While digital platforms offer constant access to others, many young adults still experience loneliness, emotional overwhelm, and difficulty forming meaningful relationships. Fastpaced social feeds, constant notifications, and pressure to be socially available at all times often create an environment that feels demanding instead of supportive. At the same time, the widespread use of smartphones has made mobile applications the primary medium for social interaction, especially among young adults who spend several hours each day online. This raises important questions about the quality of digital connection and how digital environments might be designed to foster more genuine and emotionally sustainable forms of interaction.

The idea for this thesis originated during a course in 2024 that explored slow-paced digital interaction as a way of supporting individuals who struggle with loneliness. Building on that initial inspiration, the purpose of the thesis is to develop a mobile application concept that supports lowpressure social connection and to examine how young adults experience comfort, disconnection, and emotional safety in digital spaces. The project follows an iterative, human-centered process that combines an online survey, semi-structured interviews, and several rounds of prototype testing to understand user needs and translate them into a practical design.

The conceptual framework draws from research on digital well-being, social pacing, and interaction design principles that emphasize clarity, emotional comfort, and user autonomy. The empirical part of the thesis consists of a survey mapping young people’s digital habits and social preferences, followed by interviews exploring their experiences of connection in everyday life. These findings informed the development of a mobile prototype featuring calm visual design, interest-based discovery, optional anonymity, and low-threshold opportunities for being present with others in activities.

Usability testing of the prototype showed that users appreciated the slower pacing and gentle atmosphere of the design, as well as the ability to approach interaction gradually rather than being pushed into instant communication. Some challenges, such as navigation clarity and dense layouts, were identified and refined through iteration. The results indicated that users value digital spaces that support authenticity, emotional safety, and low-effort forms of connection. Based on insights, the thesis demonstrates that well-designed digital environments can encourage positive social experiences, reduce feelings of pressure, and complement existing emotional support structures. It concludes that digital services can play a meaningful role in preventive mental health work when designed with empathy, ethical awareness, and active user participation. The outcome of the thesis can be utilized by designers, developers, and mental health organizations seeking to build socially sustainable digital solutions for young adults.