Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The research project aimed to investigate the impact of social media on mental health among young adults. A mixed-methods approach was employed to gather both quantitative and qualitative data on the subject. The quantitative data was collected through a survey distributed to young adults aged 18-25, focusing on their social media usage patterns and mental health indicators. The qualitative data was obtained through in-depth interviews with a subset of survey respondents to gain deeper insights into their experiences and perceptions. The findings revealed a complex relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes. While some participants reported positive effects of social media, such as feeling connected and supported, others highlighted negative consequences, including increased feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation. The quantitative analysis showed that higher levels of social media use were associated with greater levels of stress and anxiety among young adults. However, the qualitative data provided a more nuanced understanding of these findings, suggesting that the impact of social media on mental health is influenced by individual factors and usage patterns. Furthermore, the study identified specific social media behaviors that were linked to poor mental health outcomes, such as excessive comparison with others, cyberbullying, and exposure to negative content. Participants also expressed concerns about the pressure to present a curated and idealized version of themselves online, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. These findings underscore the need for a more critical and mindful approach to social media use, particularly among young adults who may be more vulnerable to its negative effects. In conclusion, the research project shed light on the complex interplay between social media and mental health among young adults. By combining quantitative and qualitative data, the study provided a comprehensive understanding of the various ways in which social media can impact mental well-being. The findings have important implications for mental health interventions and education programs aimed at promoting healthy social media habits and coping strategies among young adults.

Thesis Overview