Behind the Screens: A Study Investigating the Influence of Social Media on Self-Presentation, Self-Perceptions, and Perceptions of Others at McMaster University

Abstract

This study explores the multifaceted impact of social media on students' self-presentation, self-perceptions, and perceptions of others. The study investigates these impacts through a mixed-methods approach using an online survey of McMaster University students. The results show that students often curate their online personas to meet social norms and expectations, leading to discrepancies between their online and offline identities. This curation, driven by a desire for social validation and fear of negative judgment, heightens self-consciousness and alters self-perceptions. Additionally, the study found that exposure to idealized representations of peers exacerbates feelings of inadequacy and competitiveness, impacting students' mental well-being and social interactions. These findings highlight the need for greater awareness and educational initiatives to encourage healthier social media use among students. This research enriches the literature on digital identity formation and underscores the intricate relationship between social media use and psychological well-being.