Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The research project aims to investigate the impact of social media on mental health among adolescents. Social media has become an integral part of daily life for many young people, with platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat being widely used for communication and social interaction. However, there is growing concern about the potential negative effects of excessive social media use on mental well-being, particularly among adolescents who are in a crucial stage of development. This study will employ a mixed-methods approach to explore the relationship between social media usage and mental health outcomes among adolescents. The quantitative phase will involve surveying a large sample of adolescents to assess their social media habits, perceived social support, self-esteem, and mental health symptoms such as anxiety and depression. The qualitative phase will consist of in-depth interviews with a subset of participants to gain a deeper understanding of how social media influences their mental health. The research will also examine potential moderators and mediators of the relationship between social media use and mental health, such as age, gender, and the quality of online social connections. By taking a comprehensive approach that combines both quantitative and qualitative methods, this study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between social media and mental health among adolescents. The findings of this research have the potential to inform interventions and policies aimed at promoting positive mental health outcomes in young people. By identifying specific risk factors associated with social media use and mental health problems, this study can contribute to the development of targeted interventions to mitigate these risks and support adolescent well-being. Additionally, the qualitative component of the study will offer valuable insights into the subjective experiences of adolescents in relation to social media, shedding light on the mechanisms through which social media may impact mental health. Overall, this research project seeks to advance our understanding of the relationship between social media and mental health among adolescents, with the ultimate goal of fostering a healthier online environment for young people.

Thesis Overview