Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The research project aimed to investigate the impact of social media on mental health among adolescents. The study utilized a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to gather data. A sample of 500 adolescents aged 13-18 participated in the survey, while 30 individuals were interviewed in-depth. The quantitative findings revealed a significant correlation between social media usage and mental health issues among adolescents. Specifically, higher levels of social media engagement were associated with increased feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Moreover, the survey results indicated that cyberbullying was a prevalent issue, with a notable number of participants reporting experiencing online harassment. In contrast, the qualitative interviews provided deeper insights into the ways in which social media impacts adolescents' mental well-being. Participants expressed concerns about the pressure to portray a perfect image online, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Additionally, the interviews highlighted the role of social media in exacerbating peer conflicts and fostering negative comparison among adolescents. Overall, the study concluded that social media has a complex and multifaceted influence on the mental health of adolescents. While social media platforms offer opportunities for connection and self-expression, they also pose risks to adolescents' psychological well-being. The findings underscore the importance of promoting digital literacy and mental health awareness among adolescents to mitigate the negative effects of social media. The research has implications for parents, educators, mental health professionals, and policymakers. It emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts to support adolescents in navigating the digital landscape responsibly and safeguarding their mental health. By fostering open communication, providing resources for coping with online challenges, and promoting positive social media usage, stakeholders can contribute to creating a safer and healthier online environment for adolescents. Future research directions include exploring the impact of specific social media platforms, interventions to promote positive online behaviors, and longitudinal studies to track the long-term effects of social media on adolescents' mental health. By advancing our understanding of this complex issue, we can develop targeted strategies to promote the well-being of adolescents in the digital age.

Thesis Overview