Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 7
1.4 Research Questions. 8
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study. 8
1.7 Scope of the Study. 9
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 9
1.9 Organization of the Study. 10
CHAPTER TWO.. 12
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 12
2.1 Introduction.. 12
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 12
2.2.1 Social Comparison Theory. 12
2.2.2 Cyberbullying Theory. 13
2.2.3 Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) Theory. 13
2.2.4 Validation Seeking Theory. 13
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 14
2.4 Empirical Review.. 17
2.5 Summary of Chapter. 18
Chapter Three. 19
Research Methodology. 19
Introduction.. 19
Research Design.. 19
Population of the Study. 19
Sample and Sampling Techniques. 20
Data Collection Methods. 20
Validity and Reliability of Instruments. 20
Data Collection Procedure. 21
Data Analysis Techniques. 21
Ethical Considerations. 21
Conclusion.. 22
CHAPTER FOUR.. 23
DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 23
4.2 DATA ANALYSIS.. 23
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 27
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 27
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 38
Discussion of Findings. 40
CHAPTER FIVE.. 43
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.. 43
5.1 Summary of Findings. 43
5.2 Conclusion.. 44
5.3 Recommendations. 44
REFERENCES.. 46
Research Questionnaire: THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE ON ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH (A CASE STUDY OF WARRI METROPOLIS). 48
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
1.1 Background to the Study
In recent years, the proliferation of social media platforms has revolutionized how adolescents communicate, interact, and perceive the world around them. While social media offers numerous benefits, its impact on adolescent mental health has become a subject of increasing concern among researchers, parents, and educators. This introduction aims to explore the complex relationship between social media usage and adolescent mental health, shedding light on both the positive and negative effects.
The influence of social media on adolescent mental health is a multifaceted phenomenon that warrants careful examination. On one hand, social media provides adolescents with opportunities for self-expression, social connection, and community engagement, which can foster a sense of belonging and support. However, excessive use of social media has been linked to various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Understanding the mechanisms through which social media affects adolescent mental health is crucial for developing effective interventions and support systems.
Numerous studies have sought to unravel the intricate dynamics between social media usage and adolescent mental health. Research conducted by Twenge and Campbell (2018) found a significant correlation between increased screen time and higher levels of depressive symptoms among adolescents. Similarly, findings from a longitudinal study by Primack et al. (2017) revealed a bidirectional relationship between social media use and depression among young adults. Moreover, the influence of social comparison and cyberbullying on adolescent mental health has been extensively documented (Ferguson et al., 2019; Kircaburun et al., 2020). By synthesizing these findings, we can gain deeper insights into the mechanisms driving the impact of social media on adolescent mental well-being.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The escalating prevalence of social media platforms among adolescents has raised significant concerns regarding its potential ramifications on mental health. While social media offers avenues for communication, self-expression, and social connection, its adverse effects on adolescent mental well-being cannot be overlooked. This 1.2 Statement of the Problem aims to illuminate the intricate interplay between social media usage and adolescent mental health, addressing the pressing need for comprehensive understanding and effective interventions.
A central issue in the discourse on social media and adolescent mental health revolves around the detrimental consequences of excessive usage. Research conducted by Twenge and Campbell (2018) has highlighted a concerning correlation between prolonged screen time and heightened levels of depressive symptoms among adolescents. Furthermore, the pervasive nature of social media platforms has facilitated the proliferation of cyberbullying, exacerbating mental health issues among vulnerable youth (Kircaburun et al., 2020). Understanding the mechanisms underlying these adverse effects is imperative for devising targeted interventions to mitigate the negative impact of social media on adolescent mental health.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the impact of social media usage on adolescent mental health. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To identify the association between specific social media use patterns and symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- To understand the role of social comparison on social media and its impact on body image and self-esteem in adolescents.
- To explore the potential protective factors that can buffer the negative impacts of social media on adolescent mental health.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- Does the duration of daily social media use correlate with higher levels of depressive or anxious symptoms in adolescents?
- Does exposure to idealized body images and portrayals of success on social media platforms contribute to body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem in adolescents?
- Do strong social support networks outside of social media moderate the association between social media use and adolescent depression or anxiety?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant relationship between social media usage and adolescent mental health.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Psychology sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Warri Metropolis. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
