The Impact of Social Media Usage on Self Worth and Identity among Young Adults

Abstract

The present study investigates the impact of social media usage on self- esteem and self-worth among young adults. With the rapid rise in digital engagement, especially through social networking platforms, concerns have emerged about how such usage affects individuals' perceptions of self. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 200 young adults via a Google Form questionnaire. Statistical analysis, including regression and correlation methods, was employed to examine the relationship between the variables. The results revealed a significant negative impact of social media usage on both self-esteem and self-worth. Specifically, higher levels of social media use were associated with lower levels of self-esteem and self-worth. Regression analysis confirmed that social media usage was a significant predictor of both outcomes, although the strength of the relationship varied. The study also identified negative correlations among the variables, supporting the hypothesis that increased exposure to social media can negatively influence self- perception. These findings align with existing literature emphasizing the psychological consequences of excessive online engagement, such as comparison-based anxiety and reduced self-valuation. The study concludes by recommending digital literacy initiatives, promoting healthy usage habits, and encouraging further research on the topic. While the study offers meaningful insights, it is limited by its cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported data.