Topic: Social Media's Impact on Self-Esteem and Mental Health Thesis statement: While social media allows people to express themselves and connect with others, it also lowers self-esteem and mental he

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

Thesis statement: While social media allows people to express themselves and connect with others, it also lowers self-esteem and mental health by promoting unrealistic beauty standards, encouraging constant comparison, and negative online interactions, especially among teenagers. 

Topic sentence 1: Exposure to unrealistic images on social media can lead to negative self-perception and body dissatisfaction among adolescents. 

Topic sentence 2: While social media offers opportunities for increased self-esteem and social support, it also presents risks such as exposure to harmful content and negative interactions. 

Topic sentence 3: Teaching teenagers how to think critically about social media can help them avoid its negative effects and develop healthier social media habits. 

Research question: Does the type of content consumed on social media influence self-esteem and overall mental well being?

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 is people who are generally educated but do not have extensive knowledge of your field or topic

Step 1: complete all assigned components, use and cite eight sources, and answer reflection questions (earning up to 100% of the possible points)

Please note that there is no "step 2" (revise and resubmit option) for this assignment. Completion of the "initial submission" using and citing eight sources will earn you up to 100% of the possible points. The Research Paper Revisions and Expanded Reflection is to be submitted and graded as a separate assignment.

To see required components and associated points in the assignment rubric, please view this assignment through the Assignments area of the classroom and scroll to the bottom.

use and cite at least eight sources.

At least three of these must be from scholarly journals, and all sources should be selected based on reliability, currency, and level of information/analysis. The UMGC library will be very useful in helping you find appropriate sources. You can, but do not have to, include all of the sources from your annotated bibliography.

As you write your paper, be sure to include the following:

• an introductory paragraph that includes your thesis statement. The introduction is meant to engage your readers and orient them to the topic, and the thesis statement should clearly state your position or central claim to be supported in the body of your paper.
• any definition of terms or background information that your reader is likely to need to understand your paper
• focused body paragraphs that begin with topic sentences and use transitions as needed. This is where you will support the thesis using arguments and evidence. Use the sentence outline you developed in class to guide you.
• a concluding paragraph that reiterates the thesis, summarizes key points of the paper, and leaves the reader with the "So what?"
• an APA reference list that includes all of the sources cited in the text of the paper, in alphabetical order
• Research is a key element of this paper. Take care to support your claims with research throughout the paper. Include APA in-text citations whenever you use sources, whether through quote, paraphrase, or summary.

This paper should be at least 2000 words, including references.

Incorporate these elements of APA style:

• Use one-inch margins.
• Double space.
• Use a consistent, easy-to-read font between 10-point and 12-point.
• Include a title page with the title of your paper, your name, and the name of your school.

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