The Impact of Social Media on Individuals' Self-esteem and Body Image (eBook)

Seminar paper from the year 2021 in the subject Psychology - Social Psychology, , language: English, abstract: This research paper explores the impact of social media on individuals' self-esteem and body image, considering their relevance in psychological well-being. The paper employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative methods to understand the complex interplay between social media usage and these psychological constructs. The study reviews theoretical frameworks, prior research, and identifies gaps in the existing literature. It employs a cross-sectional design, using self-report questionnaires and interviews to collect data from diverse participants recruited through social media platforms. The results are analyzed quantitatively using statistical techniques and qualitatively through thematic analysis. The paper discusses the findings in relation to existing literature, offers practical recommendations for individuals and stakeholders, acknowledges limitations, and suggests future research directions. Ultimately, this research paper contributes to a deeper understanding of how social media impacts individuals' self-esteem and body image, informing strategies to promote positive psychological outcomes in the digital age.