Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This research project investigates the impact of social media usage on mental health among college students. The study focuses on understanding the relationship between social media engagement and mental health outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. A mixed-methods approach is employed, utilizing both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather data from a sample of college students. The quantitative phase involves distributing surveys to assess the frequency and duration of social media use, as well as self-reported mental health indicators. Statistical analyses are conducted to determine correlations between social media usage patterns and mental health outcomes. Additionally, demographic variables such as age, gender, and academic major are considered to identify potential moderating factors. The qualitative phase consists of in-depth interviews with selected participants to explore their experiences with social media and its influence on their mental well-being. Thematic analysis is used to identify common themes and patterns in participants' narratives, providing a deeper understanding of the mechanisms through which social media impacts mental health. The findings of this research contribute to the existing literature by offering insights into the complex relationship between social media use and mental health among college students. The results are expected to shed light on both the positive and negative effects of social media on mental well-being, informing potential interventions and strategies to promote positive mental health outcomes in this population. Overall, this research project aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the implications of social media use for mental health among college students. By combining quantitative and qualitative methods, it offers a nuanced understanding of the various factors at play in shaping the relationship between social media engagement and mental well-being. The findings have the potential to inform mental health interventions on college campuses and contribute to the development of evidence-based guidelines for promoting healthy social media use among young adults.

Thesis Overview