To conclude the course, you have the opportunity to choose a topic of interest to you and analyze it from a social psychological perspective. You will then write a literature review (see Bem, 2016), which is a scholarly paper, written in an objective and academic tone, focused on a particular subject. To do this, you must gather, review, and summarize relevant theory and research.

QUESTION

To conclude the course, you have the opportunity to choose a topic of interest to you and analyze it from a social psychological perspective. You will then write a literature review (see Bem, 2016), which is a scholarly paper, written in an objective and academic tone, focused on a particular subject. To do this, you must gather, review, and summarize relevant theory and research.

For example, if you chose to examine a proverb, such as “Opposites attract,” you would first find scholarly articles outlining the major predictors of attraction and testing this notion specifically. Begin your paper with a clear stance on the topic—yes, opposites do attract, or no, they do not—and then present the evidence in an organized fashion to support your thesis.

The topic of your literature review might come from the following list, or you may choose to identify a different area of interest. Scan your textbook for relevant concepts to

ANSWER

The Impact of Social Media on Well-being: A Social Psychological Perspective

The rise of social media has revolutionized the way we communicate, connect, and share information. Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter have become an integral part of our daily lives, providing opportunities for self-expression, social interaction, and information exchange. However, the widespread use of social media has raised concerns about its potential impact on individuals’ well-being. This literature review aims to explore the effects of social media on well-being from a social psychological perspective, examining the psychological mechanisms and factors that contribute to this phenomenon.

Social Comparison Theory

One prominent theoretical framework for understanding the impact of social media on well-being is the Social Comparison Theory. Developed by Festinger (1954), this theory posits that individuals have a natural tendency to compare themselves with others. Social media platforms provide an ideal environment for such comparisons, as users are exposed to carefully curated and often idealized representations of others’ lives (Festinger, 1954). Numerous studies have found a positive relationship between social media use and increased social comparison, which in turn has been linked to negative outcomes such as decreased self-esteem and increased depressive symptoms.

Fear of Missing Out (FoMO)

Another relevant concept in understanding the influence of social media on well-being is the Fear of Missing Out (FoMO). FoMO refers to the anxiety and apprehension individuals experience when they believe others are having more enjoyable experiences or social interactions than themselves (Alutaybi et al., 2020). Social media platforms, with their constant stream of updates and activities, can intensify feelings of FoMO. Research has indicated a positive association between FoMO and negative emotional states, such as loneliness and dissatisfaction with one’s own life.

Social Support and Social Capital

While social media can have detrimental effects on well-being, it also offers potential benefits through social support and the formation of social capital. Social media platforms enable individuals to connect with others who share similar interests and experiences, providing opportunities for emotional support and validation. Additionally, social media facilitates the maintenance of relationships and the formation of new connections. Studies have shown that social support obtained through online networks can positively influence well-being, serving as a protective factor against psychological distress.

Self-Presentation and Identity

Social media platforms encourage users to present and curate their online identities, which can impact their well-being. The concept of self-presentation, derived from Goffman’s (1959) dramaturgical perspective, suggests that individuals engage in impression management to create a desired image of themselves (Nesvadba, 2017). Research has demonstrated that individuals who engage in self-presentation strategies on social media, such as posting highly edited or idealized photos, may experience a negative discrepancy between their online and offline selves, leading to decreased self-esteem and well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the influence of social media on well-being is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. Drawing from social psychological theories and research, this literature review has highlighted several key factors that contribute to the impact of social media on individuals’ well-being. Social comparison, FoMO, social support, and self-presentation all play significant roles in shaping the relationship between social media use and well-being outcomes. While social media can have detrimental effects on mental health and self-perception, it also offers opportunities for connection, support, and self-expression. Future research should continue to explore these dynamics and develop strategies to mitigate the negative consequences while harnessing the potential benefits of social media in promoting well-being.

References

Alutaybi, A., Al-Thani, D., McAlaney, J., & Ali, R. (2020). Combating Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) on Social Media: The FoMO-R Method. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(17), 6128. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17176128 

Festinger, L. (1954). A Theory of Social Comparison Processes. Human Relations, 7(2), 117–140. https://doi.org/10.1177/001872675400700202

Nesvadba, N. (2017). The Presentation of Self in the Digital World: Goffman and the Study of Women’s Self Portrayal on Instagram through Selfies. www.academia.edu. https://www.academia.edu/36582334/The_Presentation_of_Self_in_the_Digital_World_Goffman_and_the_Study_of_Womens_Self_Portrayal_on_Instagram_through_Selfies