Impact of Social Media on Social and Mental Well-being of Youth
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53573/rhimrj.2023.v10n09.006Keywords:
Social media, youth behavior, mental health, digital society, social inequalityAbstract
This study examines the dynamic relationship between social structures, cultural norms, and individual behavior within contemporary society. The research explores how socio-economic status, education, gender, and digital transformation influence patterns of social interaction and inequality. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative survey data with qualitative interviews, the study analyzes how structural factors shape opportunities, identity formation, and access to resources. The findings reveal that social stratification continues to play a significant role in determining life chances, while emerging technological and cultural shifts are reshaping traditional social roles and relationships. The study also highlights the persistence of institutional inequalities and the need for inclusive social policies to address disparities. By integrating theoretical perspectives with empirical evidence, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of social change and its implications for social cohesion and development. The findings provide insights for policymakers, educators, and social institutions aiming to promote equity and sustainable social progress.
References
J. S. Senekal, G. Ruth Groenewald, L. Wolfaardt, C. Jansen, and K. Williams, “Social media and adolescent psychosocial development: a systematic review,” South African Journal of Psychology, vol. 53, no. 2, pp. 157–171, Jun. 2023, doi: 10.1177/00812463221119302.
I. G. Sarmiento et al., “How Does Social Media Use Relate to Adolescents’ Internalizing Symptoms? Conclusions from a Systematic Narrative Review,” Adolesc. Res. Rev., vol. 5, no. 4, pp. 381–404, Dec. 2020, doi: 10.1007/s40894-018-0095-2.
Y. Lee, Y. J. Jeon, S. Kang, J. Il Shin, Y. C. Jung, and S. J. Jung, “Social media use and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic in young adults: a meta-analysis of 14 cross-sectional studies,” BMC Public Health, vol. 22, no. 1, Dec. 2022, doi: 10.1186/s12889-022-13409-0.
B. A. Primack, K. L. Perryman, R. A. Crofford, and C. G. Escobar-Viera, “Social Media as It Interfaces with Psychosocial Development and Mental Illness in Transitional-Age Youth,” Child Adolesc. Psychiatr. Clin. N. Am., vol. 31, no. 1, pp. 11–30, Jan. 2022, doi: 10.1016/j.chc.2021.07.007.
A. Popat and C. Tarrant, “Exploring adolescents’ perspectives on social media and mental health and well-being – A qualitative literature review,” Clin. Child Psychol. Psychiatry, vol. 28, no. 1, pp. 323–337, Jan. 2023, doi: 10.1177/13591045221092884.
C. Vidal, T. Lhaksampa, L. Miller, and R. Platt, “Social media use and depression in adolescents: a scoping review,” International Review of Psychiatry, vol. 32, no. 3, pp. 235–253, Apr. 2020, doi: 10.1080/09540261.2020.1720623.
F. C. Ryding and D. J. Kuss, “The use of social networking sites, body image dissatisfaction, and body dysmorphic disorder: A systematic review of psychological research.,” Psychology of Popular Media, vol. 9, no. 4, pp. 412–435, 2020, doi: 10.1037/ppm0000264.