Date of Award

5-2025

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Master of Social Work

Department

School of Social Work

First Reader/Committee Chair

Dr. Caroline Lim

Abstract

Background: Problematic Social Media Use (PSMU) has been associated to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and disruptions in identity development among adolescents, who are especially vulnerable to the effects of excessive digital engagement (Keles et al., 2019). Even though there is increasing evidence to support these conclusions, many of the studies that are currently available employ cross-sectional designs, which makes it more difficult to identify the causal links between PSMU and mental health outcomes (Keles et al., 2019). This disparity raises concerns regarding the long-term effects of persistent overuse of social media as well as the directionality of these effects. Objective: This research study aims to examine the causal relationship between four mental health outcomes: depression, anxiety, psychological stress, and self-image, and PSMU, which is defined as excessive and compulsive social media use that adversely impacts daily functioning. Method: This explanatory, longitudinal design investigates how PSMU affects these mental health indicators in adolescents over time. Quantitative data will be collected from a purposive sample of approximately 500 adolescents aged 10 to 15 who use social media regularly. Over the course of ten years, surveys will be administered every six months, for a total of 21 data collection waves. The study will be carried out in a variety of community-based settings across San Bernardino County, California, such as community health centers, schools, and mental health facilities. Standardized instruments will be used to assess mental health outcomes, including the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) (Kroenke et al., 2001) for depression, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7) (Spitzer et al., 2006) for anxiety, the Perceived Stress Scale-14 (PSS-14) (Cohen et al., 1983) for stress, and the Self-Perception Profile for Adolescents (SPPA) (Harter, 1988) for self-image.

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