Is social media doing young people any good? A research study looking at the possible impacts of social media on young people.

The study set out to evaluate if social media is doing young people any good, looking at the possible impacts of social media on young people. The objectives of the study were to produce a in-depth literature review which critically analysed 5 themes: social media, cyberbullying, sleep deprivation, peer influences and pressures and well-being. From analysing these themes within the literature, the literature found that despite some of the positives: maintaining relationships and the ability to improve self-identity, the study found more negatives which included, lower self-esteem, poor mental health, peer pressure, cyberbullying and the lack of sleep due to being up on social media late at night. Though, despite the study critically analysing these findings in the literature review, the young people and youth workers who took part in the study provided the study with greater depth and understanding around the topics explored in the literature review. In total, 43 young people ages 11- 18 took part in the questionnaire and 7 young people took part in a focus group. In addition, interviews were carried out with youth workers to gain perspectives on their experiences in working with young people. From gaining data from the young people and youth workers it was evident that young people are very knowledgeable on social media and that social media is a part of their daily lives. This was identified when 49 out of 50 young people claimed that they use social media and the majority of the young people use social media every day (see appendices). Furthermore, the young people highlighted that social media can have a negative impact on one’s mental health and suggested the possible ways in which social media can negative impact young people. For example, lower someone mental health and wellbeing. However, despite young people being aware of this, it is evident that young people, according to the youth workers who took part in the study, are often encouraging negative experiences on social media. Lastly, the study explores possible recommendations for further research.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

ma

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

masters

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Year dc:date.issued

2023

Author dc:creator

• Aylward, Zoe

• BF Seicoleg
• H Gwyddorau Cymdeithasol (Cyffredinol)
• QA75 Cyfrifiaduron electronig
• T Technoleg (Cyffredinol)

Dc Identifier Grantnumber

UWTSD

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.uwtsd.ac.uk:2517