Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The research project focused on investigating the impact of social media on mental health among adolescents. This study aimed to explore the relationship between social media usage and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and self-esteem among teenagers. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with adolescents. The quantitative survey involved 500 participants aged 13 to 18, who were asked about their social media usage patterns and mental health symptoms. The results indicated a significant correlation between excessive social media use and higher levels of anxiety and depression among adolescents. Furthermore, teenagers who reported spending more time on social media also showed lower self-esteem compared to those who used social media less frequently. In addition to the survey data, qualitative interviews were conducted with a smaller group of adolescents to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences with social media and mental health. The interviews revealed that social media often exacerbated feelings of inadequacy and loneliness among teenagers. Many participants expressed concerns about the negative impact of social media on their self-image and relationships with peers. Overall, the findings of this study highlight the complex relationship between social media and mental health among adolescents. While social media can provide a sense of connection and support, it also has the potential to contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. These results emphasize the importance of promoting healthy social media habits and providing support for teenagers to navigate the challenges of online interactions. In conclusion, this research project sheds light on the impact of social media on the mental well-being of adolescents. By understanding the factors that influence the relationship between social media use and mental health, educators, parents, and mental health professionals can work together to support teenagers in developing positive online behaviors and coping strategies. Further research is needed to explore potential interventions and resources that can help mitigate the negative effects of social media on adolescent mental health.

Thesis Overview