Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The project aims to investigate the impact of social media on mental health and well-being among adolescents. With the increasing popularity and usage of social media platforms among young people, concerns have been raised regarding the potential negative effects on mental health outcomes. This research will explore the relationship between social media usage patterns, such as frequency, duration, and content exposure, and various aspects of mental health, including self-esteem, body image, depression, anxiety, and overall well-being. The study will utilize a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather comprehensive data. The quantitative surveys will assess social media usage habits, mental health indicators, and demographic information among a sample of adolescents. Concurrently, qualitative interviews will provide in-depth insights into the subjective experiences and perceptions of participants regarding the impact of social media on their mental health. Through statistical analysis, the research aims to identify correlations between social media use and mental health outcomes, considering factors such as gender, age, and types of social media platforms preferred. Additionally, thematic analysis of interview data will offer a nuanced understanding of the mechanisms through which social media influences adolescent mental health, including comparisons of positive and negative experiences shared by participants. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the existing body of literature on the topic by providing empirical evidence on the relationship between social media and adolescent mental health. By identifying potential risk factors associated with social media use and highlighting protective factors that may mitigate negative impacts, this research seeks to inform strategies for promoting healthy social media behaviors among young people. Ultimately, the project aims to raise awareness among parents, educators, mental health professionals, and policymakers about the complex interplay between social media and mental well-being in adolescence. By fostering a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by social media platforms, this research aspires to support the development of evidence-based interventions and guidelines to enhance the digital well-being of young individuals in the modern age.

Thesis Overview