Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The research project investigates the impact of social media on mental health among adolescents. Social media platforms have become an integral part of daily life for many young people, providing opportunities for social interaction, self-expression, and information sharing. However, concerns have been raised about the potential negative effects of excessive social media use on mental well-being. This study aims to explore the relationship between various social media activities and mental health outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. A mixed-methods approach will be employed, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to gather comprehensive data on adolescents' social media usage patterns and their corresponding mental health status. The quantitative phase will involve administering standardized questionnaires to a large sample of adolescents to assess their frequency and duration of social media use, types of content consumed, and self-reported mental health symptoms. Statistical analyses will be conducted to identify any significant associations between different social media behaviors and mental health indicators. The qualitative phase will involve in-depth interviews with a subset of participants to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms through which social media may influence mental health outcomes. Participants will be asked about their motivations for using social media, the emotional responses elicited by different types of content, and any perceived benefits or drawbacks of their online interactions. Thematic analysis will be employed to identify common themes and patterns in the qualitative data, providing insights into the subjective experiences of adolescents in relation to social media and mental health. The findings of this study have the potential to inform interventions aimed at promoting positive mental health outcomes in young people. By identifying specific social media behaviors that are associated with increased risk of mental health problems, educators, parents, and mental health professionals can develop targeted strategies to mitigate these risks. Additionally, understanding the ways in which social media can contribute to positive mental health outcomes can help guide the development of interventions that leverage the positive aspects of online social interactions. Ultimately, this research aims to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the complex relationship between social media use and mental health in adolescents, with the goal of improving overall well-being in this population.

Thesis Overview