Write a research paper using evidence to support a thesis that addresses your research question examining a current issue or event in the news from the perspective of your field of study. The audience

Social Media's Impact on Self-Esteem and Mental Health

Ashley M Reyes Duran

WRTG 112 A741 Academic Writing II

Dr. Christian Mahoney

February 12, 2025

Chassiakos, Y. R., Radesky, J., Christakis, D., Moreno, M. A., & Cross, C. (2016). Social media and mental health: Benefits, risks, and opportunities for research and practice. Pediatrics, 138(5), e20162593. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2016-2593

This scholarly article explores the complex relationship between social media use and mental health, particularly its effects on self-esteem and psychological well-being (Chassiakos et al., 2016). The authors discuss how social media can serve as a supportive space for youth but also emphasize its potential risks, such as increased anxiety, depression, and cyberbullying. The article highlights how constant exposure to idealized images and curated content can contribute to low self-esteem and body image concerns. The study presents evidence-based recommendations for practitioners and researchers to better understand and mitigate these harmful effects while leveraging social media’s benefits. Given its comprehensive and systematic review of existing literature, this source will be valuable in my research for providing a balanced perspective on social media’s role in shaping self-esteem and mental well-being, particularly in young individuals.

McCarthy, C. (2021, October 28). How social media affects your teen’s mental health: A parent’s guide. Yale Medicine. https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/social-mediamental-health

This article from Yale Medicine offers a practical perspective on the effects of social media on adolescents' self-esteem and mental health (McCarthy, 2021). McCarthy highlights research findings that indicate links between excessive social media use and mental health challenges, including increased anxiety, sleep disturbances, and depression. The article discusses how social comparison on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth, particularly in teenagers. It also provides recommendations for parents to monitor and manage their children's online activities, emphasizing the importance of digital literacy and self-regulation. While not a scholarly source, the article is valuable for my research as it presents expert insights in an accessible format, bridging the gap between academic findings and their real-world applications. The discussion on emotional triggers and self-perception in online spaces is particularly relevant to my thesis, as it highlights how digital interactions can influence self-esteem and mental well-being.

Twenge, J. M., Campbell, W. K., & Carter, N. T. (2021). Social media and mental health in students: A cross-sectional study during COVID-19. Journal of Adolescent Research, 36(6), 537-561. https://www.ebscohost.com This peer-reviewed study examines the mental health effects of social media on students, with a particular focus on self-esteem and social comparison during the COVID-19 pandemic (Twenge, Campbell, & Carter, 2021). Using a cross-sectional methodology, the researchers analysed self-reported data on anxiety, depression, and loneliness associated with social media use. The findings suggest that prolonged exposure to social media, particularly during times of crisis, may exacerbate stress, feelings of inadequacy, and low self-worth. The study also discusses potential mediators such as social support and online community engagement. This source is crucial for my research as it provides empirical data on the psychological consequences of social media use, supporting my thesis on self-esteem and emotional wellbeing. It also introduces statistical data and charts that will strengthen the quantitative aspect of my study.

Woods, H. C., & Scott, H. (2016). Social media and mental health: The role of sleep disruption and social comparison. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 19(10), 562-567. https://www.ebscohost.com

This scholarly article investigates the connection between social media use, sleep disruption, and self-esteem-related mental health outcomes (Woods & Scott, 2016). The authors explore how nighttime social media engagement contributes to poor sleep quality, which in turn exacerbates symptoms of depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. They also discuss the role of social comparison in fostering negative self-perceptions and emotional distress. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative data with qualitative insights from user experiences. This article is particularly useful for my research because it provides evidence on how social media influences self-esteem, leading to negative psychological consequences such as self-doubt and insecurity. Furthermore, its empirical findings will support the statistical and analytical components of my thesis, enhancing the credibility and depth of my discussion on the self-esteem impacts of digital interactions.