Adolescent Mental Health & Social Media Study

Info: 676 words sample research proposal
Published: 03 May 2024

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The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health: A Longitudinal Study

Abstract:

This research proposal outlines a longitudinal study aimed at investigating the impact of social media usage on the mental health of GenZ kids. With the increasing prevalence of social media platforms, understanding their effects on young users’ psychological well-being is critical for developing effective interventions and policies.

Introduction:

Social media now days has become an integral part of young people’s lives, “The need to prioritize peers is a normal part of adolescent development, and youth are turning to social media for some of that longed-for peer contact.” (Weir). As Weir the Clinical Psychologist says, it offers both possibilities for connection and potential risks for mental health. This proposed study aims to explore these dynamics for a long run, contributing to the body of knowledge on adolescent development and digital media use.

Literature Review:

Many previous studies have indicated there is a correlation between social media use and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem among GenZ kids these days. However, the studies have findings that are both positive and negative. They are mixed, with some studies suggesting positive aspects of social media, including support and community building. This study will build upon existing research by examining these relationships over in the long run.

Research Questions:

This study will be built on the basic questions that will lead the research linearly. They are, what is the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes in young people or these GenZ generations? How do these relationships that acquired from social media platforms change over time and the effect it has on the young people in the long run? What factors mediate or moderate the influence of social media on adolescent’s mental health?

Methodology:

The research will use a longitudinal approach, tracking a group of teenagers between 12-17 years old over three years. Information will be gathered through yearly surveys, social media activity records, and psychological evaluations annually. The surveys will assess various facets of mental health, such as mood problems, self-worth, and social nervousness.

Data Analysis:

Data will be examined utilizing statistical techniques appropriate for longitudinal information, like growth curve modeling. This will enable the review of individual trajectories and pinpointing patterns connected to social media usage and mental wellbeing over time.

Ethical Considerations:

The study will adhere to ethical standards, ensuring informed consent, confidentiality, and the right to withdraw. Special attention will be given to the research topic's sensitive nature and the adolescent population's vulnerability.

Expected Outcomes:

The study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of how social media use affects adolescent mental health over time. It is anticipated that the findings will inform educators, parents, policymakers, and mental health professionals, leading to better support for adolescents navigating the digital world.

Conclusion:

The proposed longitudinal study is poised to make a significant contribution to understanding the long-term effects of social media on adolescent mental health. By identifying risk and protective factors, the research can pave the way for targeted interventions and informed digital media use guidelines.

References:

Weir, Kirsten. “Social Media Brings Benefits and Risks to Teens. Here’s How Psychology Can Help Identify a Path Forward.” American Psychological Association, 1 Sept. 2023, www.apa.org/monitor/2023/09/protecting-teens-on-social-media.

“Psychology Jargon as Media Hype | Psychology Today.” Www.psychologytoday.com, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/sacramento-street-psychiatry/202202/psychology-jargon-media-hype.

Twenge, J. M., & Campbell, W. K. (2018). Associations between screen time and lower psychological well-being among children and adolescents: Evidence from a population- based study. Preventive Medicine Reports, 12, 271-283.

Woods, H. C., & Scott, H. (2016). Sleepyteens: Social media use in adolescence is associated with poor sleep quality, anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. Journal of Adolescence, 51, 41-49.

Sampasa-Kanyinga, H., & Lewis, R. F. (2015). Frequent use of social networking sites is associated with poor psychological functioning among children and adolescents. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 18(7), 380-385.

Budget and Timeline:

The proposed research will need financial support to pay for research staff, instruments to gather data, and rewards for study participants. The estimated schedule is 3 years for the investigation itself, plus 6 more months to evaluate the data collected and share the results.

This outline presents a brief overview that would have to be developed further with more thorough descriptions of the methodologies, theoretical models, and a complete assessment of existing research on the topic to make a complete research plan. Also, collecting and analyzing real data for the study would need approval from ethics committees and following proper research protocols.