Adolescence is a critical stage in human life where individuals undergo significant physical, emotional, mental, and psychological changes. One of the most significant aspects of this period is the development of their self-identities and personal worth. Social media has become an integral part of modern society, especially among adolescents who spend an average of nine hours daily on various platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, etc.
Researchers have raised concerns about how social media use affects adolescent's self-identity and personal worth. This article will explore how constant comparison on social media influences the development of self-identity and personal self-worth in adolescents.
Social media allows users to compare themselves with others based on their body shape, skin tone, fashion sense, lifestyle choices, academic achievements, wealth, social status, popularity, fame, and many other factors. Adolescents often feel inadequate when they see images of 'perfect lives,' which make them question their capabilities and abilities. According to a study conducted by Lee and Cho (2017), frequent use of Instagram and Facebook can lead to low self-esteem and negative body image perceptions. The constant comparison of one's appearance or accomplishments on social media leads to a lack of confidence, anxiety, depression, and self-doubt.
Social media comparisons can negatively impact personal self-worth. Adolescents may believe that their worth is determined by likes, comments, and followers on social media. They tend to seek validation from strangers instead of family members, peers, teachers, and loved ones, leading to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and disconnection. This phenomenon is known as social media addiction, where individuals depend heavily on digital interactions for emotional fulfillment and self-worth. A survey conducted by Riley et al. (2018) found that social media addicts were more likely to experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, and insomnia than non-addicted individuals.
Constant comparison on social media influences the development of adolescent's self-identity and personal self-worth. It causes low self-esteem, poor body image perception, and emotional instability. Parents, educators, counselors, and mental health professionals should help adolescents develop resilience against social media comparison to achieve positive outcomes during this critical stage in life. By learning how to regulate their social media usage and developing healthy coping mechanisms, they will be better equipped to navigate the challenges of growing up in the digital age.
How does the constant comparison on social media influence the development of self-identity and personal self-worth in adolescents?
In recent years, the rise of social media has had profound effects on the way we interact with one another and how we perceive ourselves. One of the most significant impacts is on the development of our self-identity and self-worth, particularly among adolescents. Social media allows us to compare ourselves to others' lives and appearance, which can lead to feelings of inferiority and low self-esteem.