Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The research project focused on analyzing the impact of social media on mental health among adolescents. A mixed-methods approach was employed to gather data from a sample of 500 teenagers aged between 13 and 18 years. The quantitative phase involved a survey questionnaire distributed online to assess the frequency and duration of social media use, the types of platforms used, and self-reported mental health indicators such as anxiety and depression. The qualitative phase consisted of in-depth interviews with a subset of 50 participants to gain deeper insights into their experiences and perceptions regarding social media usage and its effects on their mental well-being. The findings revealed a significant correlation between excessive social media use and higher levels of anxiety and depression among adolescents. Participants who reported spending more than 3 hours per day on social media platforms exhibited increased symptoms of stress and emotional disturbances. Moreover, specific platforms like Instagram and Snapchat were associated with greater negative mental health outcomes compared to others like Twitter or YouTube. The qualitative data provided further nuance to these results by highlighting the role of cyberbullying, unrealistic body image standards, and fear of missing out (FOMO) as common stressors linked to social media usage. The research also identified potential protective factors that could mitigate the negative impact of social media on adolescent mental health. Strong parental involvement, open communication about online activities, and promoting a healthy balance between digital and offline interactions were highlighted as key strategies to promote better mental well-being in this age group. Additionally, educational interventions focusing on digital literacy, emotional regulation, and coping mechanisms could empower teenagers to navigate social media in a more mindful and self-aware manner. Overall, the study underscored the complex interplay between social media engagement and mental health outcomes among adolescents. While digital platforms offer numerous benefits in terms of connectivity and social support, they also pose inherent risks to psychological well-being. By understanding these dynamics and implementing targeted interventions, parents, educators, and mental health professionals can work together to create a safer and more supportive online environment for young individuals to thrive and flourish.

Thesis Overview