Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Social media has become an integral part of daily life for adolescents, influencing various aspects of their development, including body image and self-esteem. This thesis explores the impact of social media on body image and self-esteem in adolescents, aiming to understand the mechanisms through which social media affects these psychological constructs. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to provide a comprehensive analysis. Chapter One introduces the research topic, providing background information on the prevalence of social media use among adolescents and its potential influence on body image and self-esteem. The problem statement identifies the gaps in current literature and highlights the significance of examining this issue. The objectives of the study are outlined to investigate the relationship between social media use and body image dissatisfaction and self-esteem levels in adolescents. Chapter Two presents a thorough literature review, examining existing research on the impact of social media on body image and self-esteem in adolescents. The review synthesizes findings from empirical studies, theoretical frameworks, and previous research to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Chapter Three details the research methodology employed in this study, including the selection of participants, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques. The chapter outlines the research design, sampling procedures, and ethical considerations to ensure the validity and reliability of the findings. Chapter Four presents the findings of the study, analyzing the quantitative survey data and qualitative interview responses. The results explore the correlations between social media use, body image dissatisfaction, and self-esteem levels in adolescents, providing valuable insights into the impact of social media on psychological well-being. Chapter Five concludes the thesis by summarizing the key findings, discussing the implications of the research, and suggesting recommendations for future studies. The conclusion highlights the need for interventions and support systems to promote positive body image and self-esteem among adolescents in the digital age. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of literature on the impact of social media on adolescent development, shedding light on the complex interplay between online platforms and psychological well-being. By understanding these dynamics, educators, parents, and mental health professionals can better support adolescents in navigating the challenges of social media and promoting healthy body image and self-esteem.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "The Impact of Social Media on Body Image and Self-Esteem in Adolescents" aims to investigate the relationship between social media usage and its influence on body image perceptions and self-esteem levels among adolescents. In recent years, the prevalence of social media platforms has significantly increased, especially among the younger demographic, leading to concerns about its potential impact on mental health and well-being. Adolescence is a critical developmental stage characterized by heightened self-awareness and susceptibility to external influences, including social media. The project seeks to explore how exposure to idealized body images and unrealistic beauty standards on social media may contribute to the development of body image dissatisfaction and negative self-esteem in adolescents. The research will utilize a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys to assess social media usage patterns and their correlation with body image dissatisfaction and self-esteem levels, as well as qualitative interviews to gain deeper insights into the subjective experiences and perceptions of adolescents regarding social media and body image concerns. By examining the impact of social media on body image and self-esteem in adolescents, this project aims to contribute to the existing literature on the effects of digital media on mental health outcomes, particularly among vulnerable populations such as adolescents. The findings of this research may have implications for developing targeted interventions and educational programs aimed at promoting positive body image and self-esteem among young individuals in the digital age.