Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis examines the impact of social media on the mental health of young adults. In recent years, social media platforms have become integral parts of daily life for many individuals, particularly young adults. The pervasive use of social media has raised concerns about its potential effects on mental health, including increased feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and low self-esteem. This study aims to investigate the relationship between social media usage and mental health outcomes among young adults, focusing on the potential negative consequences associated with excessive social media use. The research methodology employed in this study includes a comprehensive literature review to explore existing knowledge on the subject, as well as a quantitative survey to gather data on social media usage patterns and mental health indicators among young adults. The findings from the survey will be analyzed to identify any significant correlations between social media use and mental health outcomes. Additionally, qualitative interviews will be conducted to provide deeper insights into the subjective experiences of young adults in relation to social media and mental health. The results of this study are expected to contribute to a better understanding of the impact of social media on mental health in young adults, highlighting potential risk factors and protective factors that may influence these outcomes. By shedding light on this important issue, this research aims to inform public health interventions and educational programs aimed at promoting healthy social media habits and supporting the mental well-being of young adults in the digital age.

Thesis Overview

The research project titled "Investigating the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health in Young Adults" aims to explore the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes among young adults. In recent years, social media has become an integral part of daily life for many individuals, particularly young adults who are digital natives. While social media platforms offer various benefits such as connecting with others, sharing experiences, and accessing information, there is growing concern about the potential negative impact on mental health. The research will delve into the existing literature on social media use and mental health, examining how factors such as excessive use, cyberbullying, comparison, and FOMO (fear of missing out) may contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem among young adults. By conducting a thorough review of relevant studies and theories, the project aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms through which social media can influence mental health outcomes. Furthermore, the research will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather data from a sample of young adults. The surveys will assess social media usage patterns, mental health symptoms, and perceived impacts, while the interviews will offer deeper insights into the lived experiences and perspectives of participants. By triangulating data from both methods, the study seeks to gain a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between social media use and mental health among young adults. The findings of this research project are expected to contribute valuable insights to the fields of psychology, sociology, and communication studies. By shedding light on the impact of social media on mental health in young adults, the study aims to inform interventions, policies, and educational initiatives that promote healthy social media use and support mental well-being in this demographic. Ultimately, the research endeavors to foster a more nuanced understanding of the benefits and challenges associated with social media use, paving the way for a more informed and balanced approach to digital engagement among young adults.