Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The pervasive use of social media platforms among young adults has raised concerns about its potential impact on mental health. This thesis aims to explore the relationship between social media usage and mental health outcomes in young adults. The study will delve into the various ways in which social media platforms influence the mental well-being of this demographic group and identify potential strategies to mitigate negative effects. The research will begin with an introduction that provides an overview of the topic, followed by a detailed background of the study that highlights the prevalence of social media use among young adults and its potential implications for mental health. The problem statement will articulate the research gap, emphasizing the need to understand the impact of social media on mental health in young adults. The objectives of the study will be outlined to guide the research process, focusing on investigating the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes, exploring factors that contribute to this relationship, and proposing recommendations for promoting positive mental health in young adults in the digital age. Limitations of the study will be acknowledged, recognizing potential constraints such as sample size, data collection methods, and generalizability of findings. The scope of the study will be defined to delineate the boundaries within which the research will be conducted, specifying the target population, research variables, and geographical focus. The significance of the study will be emphasized to underscore its potential contributions to existing knowledge on social media and mental health, as well as its implications for public health policies and interventions targeting young adults. The structure of the thesis will be outlined to provide a roadmap of the subsequent chapters, including the literature review, research methodology, findings discussion, and conclusion. The literature review will critically analyze existing research on the impact of social media on mental health in young adults, synthesizing key findings and identifying gaps in the literature. The research methodology will detail the study design, sampling techniques, data collection methods, and analytical approaches employed to investigate the research questions. The findings discussion will present the results of the study, highlighting the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes, as well as the underlying mechanisms that drive this relationship. Implications of the findings for theory, practice, and policy will be discussed to inform future research and interventions in this area. In conclusion, this thesis will summarize the key findings, implications, and recommendations arising from the study, affirming the complex interplay between social media and mental health in young adults. The research findings will contribute to a better understanding of this phenomenon and offer insights into promoting positive mental health outcomes in the digital age.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Exploring the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health in Young Adults" aims to investigate the relationship between social media usage and mental health outcomes among young adults. In recent years, social media platforms have become an integral part of everyday life for many individuals, particularly among the younger demographic. However, concerns have been raised about the potential negative effects that excessive use of social media may have on mental well-being, especially among young adults who are still developing emotionally and psychologically. The research will delve into various aspects of social media engagement, such as the frequency of use, types of content consumed, interactions with others online, and the emotional responses triggered by social media interactions. By examining these factors, the study seeks to identify potential links between social media usage patterns and mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and stress. The project will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys to gather data on social media habits and mental health symptoms, as well as qualitative interviews to explore the lived experiences and perceptions of young adults regarding the impact of social media on their mental well-being. This dual methodology will provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between social media usage and mental health outcomes among the target population. Furthermore, the research will consider the role of various psychosocial factors, such as self-esteem, social comparison, and online social support, in mediating the relationship between social media use and mental health. By examining these moderating variables, the study aims to elucidate the underlying mechanisms through which social media may influence mental health in young adults. The findings of this research are expected to contribute valuable insights to the existing body of knowledge on the impact of social media on mental health, particularly in the context of young adult populations. The outcomes of the study may inform the development of targeted interventions and guidelines aimed at promoting healthy social media practices and safeguarding the mental well-being of young individuals in the digital age.