Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The research project aimed to investigate the impact of social media on mental health among adolescents. The study utilized a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather comprehensive data. The quantitative survey was distributed to a sample of 500 adolescents aged 13-18, while qualitative interviews were conducted with a subset of 20 participants. The findings of the study revealed a complex relationship between social media usage and mental health outcomes. The quantitative analysis indicated a significant correlation between high social media usage and symptoms of anxiety and depression among adolescents. However, the qualitative interviews provided deeper insights into the nuances of this relationship. Participants reported both positive and negative effects of social media on their mental health, highlighting the role of social comparison, cyberbullying, and fear of missing out as key stressors. Moreover, the study identified various coping mechanisms employed by adolescents to mitigate the negative impact of social media on their mental well-being. These included strategies such as limiting screen time, curating their online social circles, and seeking support from trusted individuals. Additionally, the research explored the role of parental involvement and digital literacy in shaping adolescents' experiences with social media. Overall, the findings suggest that while social media can have detrimental effects on mental health, it also offers opportunities for positive social connections and self-expression. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to promote healthy social media use among adolescents, including educational programs, mental health resources, and parental guidance. The implications of this research extend to various stakeholders, including parents, educators, mental health professionals, and policymakers. By understanding the complex interplay between social media and mental health, these stakeholders can work collaboratively to support adolescents in navigating the digital landscape safely and responsibly. Future research directions may involve longitudinal studies to track the long-term effects of social media on mental health, as well as intervention studies to evaluate the efficacy of targeted programs in promoting positive online experiences for adolescents.

Thesis Overview