Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The aim of this research project is to investigate the impact of social media on mental health among adolescents. With the increasing use of social media platforms by teenagers, concerns have been raised about the potential negative effects on their mental well-being. This study will explore the relationship between social media usage patterns, such as frequency and duration of use, and various mental health outcomes including depression, anxiety, and self-esteem. The research will involve a survey design to collect data from a sample of adolescents aged 13 to 18 years. The theoretical framework for this study will be based on social comparison theory and self-esteem theory, which suggest that exposure to idealized images and lifestyles on social media may lead to negative self-evaluation and lower self-esteem. Additionally, the fear of missing out (FOMO) phenomenon will be considered as a potential mediator between social media use and mental health outcomes. By examining these theoretical perspectives, the research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how social media impacts the mental health of adolescents. The methodology will involve recruiting participants from local schools and administering a survey questionnaire that includes measures of social media use, mental health symptoms, self-esteem, and FOMO. Statistical analyses, such as correlation and regression, will be conducted to explore the relationships between these variables. The findings will contribute to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the associations between social media use and mental health outcomes among adolescents. The implications of this study are significant for parents, educators, and mental health professionals who work with adolescents. By understanding the potential risks associated with social media use, interventions and strategies can be developed to promote healthier online behaviors and support the mental well-being of teenagers. Ultimately, this research aims to raise awareness about the impact of social media on mental health and contribute to the development of evidence-based guidelines for adolescents' social media use.

Thesis Overview