EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON
THE MENTAL HEALTH OF
YOUNG ADULTS
SUBMITTED BY: QAILA P. ISMAEL
(STUDENT)
SUBMITTED TO: NHOR HAIMA S. HASSIM
(TEACHER)
CHAPTER 1
(Effects Of Social Media On The Mental Health Of Young Adults)
A. INTRODUCTION
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Social media has become an essential part of daily life, particularly for young adults who use
platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to connect, share, and seek
information. While these platforms offer numerous benefits, their influence on mental health
has raised concerns. Excessive social media use has been linked to anxiety, depression, low self-
esteem, and sleep disturbances. This study aims to explore the positive and negative effects of
social media on young adults' mental well-being, providing insights into how social media
impacts their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.
The rise of social media has significantly changed the way young adults interact and perceive
themselves. While it provides opportunities for social engagement, online learning, and self-
expression, it also exposes individuals to cyberbullying, unrealistic beauty standards, and
addictive behaviors. Studies have shown that prolonged social media use can contribute to
mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness. This study seeks to
understand the extent of social media's influence on mental health and identify potential
strategies to mitigate its negative effects.
The advent of social media has revolutionized the way people communicate, interact, and share
information. With the rise of platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, social
media has become an integral part of modern life, especially among young adults. However,
concerns have been raised about the potential impact of social media on the mental health of
young adults.
Recent studies have suggested that excessive social media use can lead to increased symptoms
of depression, anxiety, and loneliness among young adults (Király et al., 2019; Burke et al.,
2010). Social media platforms often present curated and idealized versions of other people's
lives, leading to unrealistic comparisons and a distorted view of reality (Gentile et al., 2017).
Furthermore, the constant stream of notifications, likes, and comments can activate the brain's
reward system, leading to addiction and decreased attention span (Kuss & Griffiths, 2011).
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Research by Twenge et al. Study by Keles, McCrae, and Grealish (2020) Several studies have
explored the relationship between social media use and mental health. (2018) suggests that
increased screen time correlates with higher rates of depression and anxiety among young
adults. Another highlights that social media comparisons contribute to low self-esteem and
body dissatisfaction. However, other researchers argue that social media can provide social
support, reduce feelings of isolation, and promote mental well-being when used positively. This
section will review relevant studies that discuss both the advantages and disadvantages of
social media in mental health.
The impact of social media on mental health has been a topic of increasing interest and concern
in recent years. This review aims to synthesize the existing literature on the effect of social
media on the mental health of young adults.
Social Media Use and Mental Health
Numerous studies have investigated the relationship between social media use and mental
health outcomes. A systematic review of 36 studies found that social media use was associated
with increased symptoms of depression, anxiety, and loneliness (Király et al., 2019). Another
study found that young adults who spent more time on social media were more likely to
experience depression and anxiety (Gentile et al., 2017).
Cyberbullying and Online Harassment
Cyberbullying and online harassment are significant concerns for young adults, particularly in
the context of social media. A study found that 34% of young adults reported experiencing
online harassment, which was associated with increased symptoms of depression and anxiety
(Pew Research Center, 2017).
Sleep Disturbances and Social Media
Sleep disturbances are a common problem among young adults, and social media use has been
implicated as a contributing factor. A study found that exposure to screens and social media
before bedtime was associated with poor sleep quality and reduced sleep duration (Cain &
Gradisar, 2010).
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
This study aims to answer the following questions:
1. How does social media usage affect the mental health of young adults?
2. What are the most common mental health issues associated with excessive social media use?
3. Are there positive effects of social media on young adults' mental well-being?
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
Understanding the impact of social media on young adults' mental health is crucial for
developing interventions and policies to promote well-being. The findings of this study will
benefit:
Young adults by helping them become aware of the psychological effects of social media.
Parents and educators by providing insights into guiding responsible social media use.
Mental health professionals by highlighting patterns of online behavior that affect mental
health.
Policy makers by offering evidence for regulations on social media content and usage.
This study is significant because it aims to contribute to the growing body of research on the
impact of social media on mental health. The findings of this study can provide insights for
policymakers, mental health professionals, and educators to develop strategies and
interventions to promote healthy social media use and mitigate its negative effects on mental
health.
SCOPE AND DELIMITATION
This study focuses on young adults aged 18-30 who actively use social media platforms. It
examines both the positive and negative effects of social media on mental health, including
anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and sleep patterns. However, this study does not cover other
age groups or the impact of social media on physical health. Data will be collected through
surveys and literature reviews.
DEFINITION OF TERMS
1.Social Media – Online platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok used for
communication and content sharing.
2.Mental Health – A person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
3.Anxiety – A mental health disorder characterized by excessive worry and fear.
4.Depression – A mood disorder causing persistent sadness and loss of interest.
5.Self-Esteem – An individual’s overall sense of self-worth or personal value.
6. Mental Health Outcomes – Measurable changes in mental health status, such as symptoms
of depression, anxiety, and loneliness (Gentile et al., 2017).
7. Social Media Use – The frequency, duration, and type of social media activities engaged in by
young adults, such as browsing, posting, and interacting with others (Király et al., 2019)
8. Addiction – A pattern of behavior characterized by compulsive use of social media despite
negative consequences, such as neglect of important relationships, work, or activities (Kuss &
Griffiths, 2011).
9. Anxiety – A mental health disorder characterized by excessive and persistent fear, worry, or
anxiety that interferes with daily life (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
10. Loneliness – A negative emotional state characterized by feelings of isolation,
disconnection, and sadness (Hawkley & Cacioppo, 2010).
