Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis investigates the impact of social media use on the mental health of young adults through a longitudinal study. The study aims to provide valuable insights into the relationship between social media engagement and mental health outcomes over time. In recent years, the prevalence of social media platforms has significantly increased, with young adults being one of the most active user groups. However, concerns have been raised about the potential negative effects of excessive social media use on mental well-being, including increased anxiety, depression, and loneliness. This research seeks to address these concerns by examining the longitudinal effects of social media engagement on the mental health of young adults. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the study, presenting the background, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. The chapter sets the stage for the research by highlighting the importance of understanding the impact of social media on mental health in young adults. Chapter 2 presents a comprehensive literature review that explores existing research on the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes in young adults. The review covers key themes such as the psychological effects of social media, factors influencing mental health in young adults, and previous longitudinal studies in this area. Chapter 3 outlines the research methodology employed in this study, including the research design, data collection methods, sampling strategy, measures used to assess social media use and mental health, and data analysis techniques. The chapter provides a detailed overview of how the study was conducted to ensure the validity and reliability of the findings. Chapter 4 delves into the discussion of the research findings, presenting the longitudinal results of the study on the impact of social media use on the mental health of young adults. The chapter examines the relationships between social media engagement, mental health outcomes, and potential moderating factors, offering insights into the complex dynamics at play. Chapter 5 serves as the conclusion and summary of the thesis, synthesizing the key findings, discussing the implications for theory and practice, highlighting the contributions of the study, and suggesting directions for future research. The chapter concludes with a reflection on the overall significance of the research in advancing our understanding of the impact of social media on mental health in young adults. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the growing body of literature on the effects of social media on mental health by providing a longitudinal perspective on the issue. The findings offer valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to promote positive mental health outcomes in young adults amidst the pervasive influence of social media platforms.

Thesis Overview

Research Overview: The project titled "The Impact of Social Media Use on Mental Health in Young Adults: A Longitudinal Study" aims to investigate the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes in young adults over an extended period. In recent years, the rise of social media platforms has reshaped the way individuals communicate, interact, and perceive the world around them. While social media offers numerous benefits, such as increased connectivity and information sharing, concerns have been raised regarding its potential negative impact on mental health, particularly among young adults. The study will focus on young adults aged 18 to 25, a demographic group that is highly engaged with social media platforms and is in a critical stage of psychological development and identity formation. By conducting a longitudinal study, the research aims to capture the dynamic nature of social media use and its effects on mental health over time. This longitudinal approach will provide valuable insights into how changes in social media behavior correspond to changes in mental health outcomes, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of this complex relationship. The research will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys to assess social media use patterns and mental health indicators, such as stress levels, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem, with qualitative interviews to delve deeper into the subjective experiences and perceptions of young adults regarding their social media use and mental well-being. By integrating both quantitative and qualitative data, the study seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of the multifaceted relationship between social media use and mental health among young adults. Furthermore, the project will explore potential moderating factors that may influence the impact of social media on mental health, such as individual differences, coping strategies, social support, and offline social interactions. By considering these moderating variables, the research aims to identify key factors that may exacerbate or mitigate the effects of social media use on mental health outcomes, offering valuable insights for interventions and support mechanisms tailored to the specific needs of young adults. Overall, the longitudinal study on "The Impact of Social Media Use on Mental Health in Young Adults" seeks to contribute to the growing body of literature on the complex interplay between social media engagement and mental well-being. By adopting a longitudinal design and a mixed-methods approach, the research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how social media use influences mental health outcomes over time, offering important implications for promoting positive mental health practices and interventions among young adults in the digital age.