THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON ADOLESCENTS’ AND YOUNG ADULTS’ MENTAL HEALTH
Keywords:
social media, adolescents, young adults, mental health, psychological mechanisms, social comparison, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation.Abstract
This article examines the influence of social media on the mental
health of adolescents and young adults from both theoretical and empirical
perspectives. Social media has become a pervasive part of young people’s daily
lives, shaping their social interactions, self-perception, and emotional well-being.
The study highlights key psychological mechanisms through which social media
use affects mental health, including social comparison, online peer feedback,
identity formation, and exposure to cyberbullying. Furthermore, the article
presents empirical findings on the relationship between social media engagement
and outcomes such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and emotional regulation.
A scientific table summarizes core psychological determinants, followed by a
detailed discussion of their implications. The findings suggest that responsible
social media use, digital literacy, and psychological interventions are crucial for
promoting healthy psychosocial development among youth.
References
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3. Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence. New York: Bantam Books.
