Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The research aimed to investigate the impact of social media usage on mental health among adolescents. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a quantitative survey with qualitative interviews to gather comprehensive data. The quantitative survey included questions related to the frequency and duration of social media use, types of platforms used, and self-reported mental health indicators such as anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. The qualitative interviews delved deeper into the subjective experiences of adolescents with social media, exploring themes such as cyberbullying, comparison with peers, and the role of social media in shaping self-perception. Results from the survey indicated a correlation between increased social media usage and higher levels of anxiety and depression among adolescents. Specifically, participants who reported spending more than two hours a day on social media platforms were more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression compared to those who spent less time online. Interestingly, the type of platform also played a role, with image-centric platforms like Instagram being associated with higher levels of anxiety and dissatisfaction with body image. Qualitative findings provided valuable insights into the emotional impact of social media on adolescents. Many interviewees described feeling pressure to conform to idealized standards of beauty and success perpetuated by social media influencers. Cyberbullying emerged as a significant issue, with several participants recounting experiences of online harassment and its detrimental effects on their mental well-being. Despite these negative aspects, some adolescents also highlighted the positive role of social media in fostering connections with peers and providing a platform for self-expression. Overall, the findings suggest a complex relationship between social media usage and mental health outcomes among adolescents. While social media offers opportunities for socialization and self-expression, it also exposes young users to potential risks such as cyberbullying and unrealistic comparisons. Recommendations for promoting positive mental health in adolescents include promoting digital literacy skills, encouraging open communication between parents and children about online experiences, and fostering a healthy balance between online and offline activities. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of social media on adolescent mental health and develop targeted interventions to support their well-being in the digital age.

Thesis Overview