Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The research project aimed to investigate the impact of social media on mental health among teenagers. With the widespread use of social media platforms among adolescents, concerns have been raised about the potential negative effects on their psychological well-being. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to gather comprehensive data. The quantitative phase involved administering surveys to a sample of 500 teenagers aged 13-18 to assess their social media usage patterns and mental health status. The results indicated a significant association between heavy social media use and symptoms of anxiety and depression among the participants. Furthermore, certain platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat were found to be particularly linked to negative mental health outcomes. In the qualitative phase, in-depth interviews were conducted with a subset of participants to explore the underlying mechanisms through which social media influences mental health. Themes such as social comparison, cyberbullying, and fear of missing out emerged as prominent factors contributing to the negative impact of social media on teenagers' well-being. Additionally, the role of parental involvement and digital literacy in mitigating these effects was also examined. Overall, the findings suggest a complex relationship between social media and mental health in teenagers, highlighting both the positive and negative aspects of online social interactions. While social media can provide a sense of connection and support, it also has the potential to exacerbate feelings of loneliness and inadequacy. The study underscores the importance of promoting digital well-being and educating adolescents about healthy social media use. Implications of the research include the development of targeted interventions to promote positive online experiences and enhance mental health outcomes among teenagers. Educators, parents, and mental health professionals can benefit from the insights gained from this study to create effective strategies for supporting adolescents in navigating the digital landscape. Future research directions may involve longitudinal studies to track the long-term effects of social media on mental health and explore emerging platforms and trends in online communication.

Thesis Overview