Behind the Screens: Exploring Young Adults’ Experiences with Social Media on Self-Image 4 Exploring Young Adults’ Experiences with Social Media on Self-Image
| dc.contributor.author | AL-NUR ALIA BINTI YAZIR | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2026-08-20T01:57:53Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2025 | |
| dc.description | This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of young adults aged 19–25 regarding how social media influences their self-image. Grounded in Person-Centered Theory and Social Comparison Theory, the research aimed to understand (1) how young adults experience their self-image through social media interaction, (2) their perceptions of self-image shaped by digital content, and (3) the strategies they adopt to manage its emotional impact. A phenomenological approach was used, involving purposive sampling and in-depth semi-structured interviews with six active social media users. Thematic analysis revealed key themes such as upward and downward comparisons, emotional vulnerability, content curation, and coping mechanisms including digital detox and self-awareness strategies. Findings suggest that while social media can contribute to self-doubt and insecurity, it also offers opportunities for self-improvement and connection. The study contributes to counselling practices by offering culturally contextual insights into how young adults navigate social media’s psychological pressures. It highlights the importance of fostering digital literacy and emotional resilience in counselling interventions. | |
| dc.identifier.uri | https://scholarhub.unimas.my/handle/123456789/1652 | |
| dc.language.iso | English | |
| dc.publisher | UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK | |
| dc.relation.ispartofseries | Faculty of Cognitive Sciences and Human Development | |
| dc.title | Behind the Screens: Exploring Young Adults’ Experiences with Social Media on Self-Image 4 Exploring Young Adults’ Experiences with Social Media on Self-Image | |
| dc.type | Final Year Project |