Impact of Social Media on Personal Identity & Wellbeing

Nichole Acheampong

Co-Presenters: Individual Presentation

College: College of Business and Public Management

Major: Public Administration

Faculty Research Mentor: Adara Goldberg

Abstract:

The impact of social media on Generation Z’s personal identities is a topic of increasing relevance and interest. What young people see or are exposed to forms and shapes their thinking, perceptions, and health and wellbeing. This study aims to identify how social media impacts young people’s personal identity and self-esteem based on the content they are exposed to and the duration of that exposure.This research addresses the following questions:• Does the content on a daily social media feed shape or change one’s thinking?• Does taking a break from social media improve one’s wellbeing, or leave them feeling a sense of withdrawal and missing out?The findings of this research will highlight the need for resources to help individuals understand their identity without being influenced by external ideologies, perceptions, and opinions of others that are prominent on social media. Ultimately, this study aims to benefit society by helping current and future generations explore their true selves, maintain overall well-being, and build confidence without feeling the need to create a false identity.Keywords: social media, wellbeing, identity, influence