Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis explores the impact of social media on interpersonal relationships in urban settings from a sociological and anthropological perspective. The rapid proliferation of social media platforms has transformed the ways in which individuals communicate, interact, and form relationships in urban environments. This study aims to investigate how social media influences the dynamics of interpersonal relationships among urban dwellers, considering factors such as communication patterns, social interactions, identity construction, and community engagement. The research is guided by a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection methods to provide a comprehensive analysis of the phenomenon. The study will involve surveys, interviews, and participant observation to gather insights from a diverse sample of urban residents. Through thematic analysis and statistical techniques, the findings will be analyzed to identify patterns, trends, and correlations related to social media use and its impact on interpersonal relationships. Chapter One provides an introduction to the research topic, presenting the background, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance of the study, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. Chapter Two presents a comprehensive literature review that examines existing research on social media, interpersonal relationships, urban sociology, and anthropology. The literature review will highlight the theoretical frameworks and key concepts that inform the study. Chapter Three outlines the research methodology, detailing the research design, sampling strategy, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques. The chapter also discusses ethical considerations and limitations of the research process. Chapter Four presents the findings of the study, offering an in-depth analysis of the data collected and discussing the implications of the results for understanding the impact of social media on interpersonal relationships in urban settings. The conclusion and summary in Chapter Five provide a synthesis of the key findings, discussing the implications for theory, policy, and practice. The thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge on the intersection of social media, urban life, and interpersonal relationships, offering insights that can inform future research and interventions in this area. Ultimately, this study aims to deepen our understanding of the complex ways in which social media shapes interpersonal dynamics in urban environments and to provide valuable perspectives for addressing the challenges and opportunities that arise in this context.

Thesis Overview

The research project, "Examining the Impact of Social Media on Interpersonal Relationships in Urban Settings: A Sociological and Anthropological Perspective," aims to investigate the profound influence that social media platforms have on interpersonal relationships within urban environments through the lenses of sociology and anthropology. In an increasingly interconnected world driven by digital communication, the dynamics of human interaction have been significantly transformed, raising important questions about the nature of relationships and community in urban settings. This study will delve into the complexities of how social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and others, shape and mediate interpersonal relationships among urban dwellers. By employing a sociological and anthropological perspective, the project seeks to explore the ways in which social media technologies impact communication patterns, social behaviors, and the construction of identity within urban communities. Furthermore, the research will analyze both the positive and negative consequences of social media use on interpersonal relationships, considering aspects such as intimacy, trust, authenticity, and social support. Key areas of focus will include examining how social media platforms facilitate the maintenance of social ties, the formation of new relationships, and the negotiation of conflicts in urban environments. Moreover, the project will investigate the role of social media in shaping individual perceptions of self and others, as well as its influence on community dynamics and social cohesion in urban settings. By synthesizing insights from sociology and anthropology, this research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted impact of social media on interpersonal relationships in urban contexts. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, including surveys, interviews, and content analysis, this study will collect data from urban residents to gain in-depth insights into their experiences and perceptions regarding social media use and its effects on interpersonal relationships. By analyzing the data gathered, the research will generate valuable findings that contribute to the existing body of knowledge on the intersection of social media, urban living, and human relationships. Overall, this project aspires to offer a nuanced exploration of the ways in which social media technologies shape and transform interpersonal relationships in urban settings, shedding light on the social, cultural, and psychological dynamics at play in the digital age. By bridging the disciplines of sociology and anthropology, this research seeks to provide a holistic understanding of the impact of social media on urban social life and contribute to the ongoing discourse on technology-mediated human connections in contemporary society.