New Delhi: Social media has evolved far beyond a platform for sharing photos and videos; it has become an integral part of everyday life. For Gen Z, it plays a significant role in shaping identity, self-confidence and overall happiness. A recent study suggests that social media metrics such as likes, comments and follower counts are having a growing impact on the mental well-being of young people.
This study was done under the leadership of Professor Dr Jyoti Sidana, who is a sociology professor at a Kota-based Government Arts Girls College. In this study, 141 girls from different colleges were interviewed over a span of 25 days. This study aimed to understand the impact of social media on the feelings, relationships, and mental health of students.
According to the study, 82.9 per cent of students accepted that the likes and comments received on their posts directly affected their mood. 9.8 per cent of the students accepted that it affected their mood to some extent, while 7.3 per cent of students were not affected at all by the responses received on social media.
The research revealed that likes and views have become a means of acceptance among the youth. They feel less important when their social media post does not receive the required response.
Why are the students feeling lonely?
One of the most shocking results of the study is the number of students feeling lonely even after having thousands of followers. 61 per cent of the students were feeling lonely despite having more than a thousand followers on social media. According to the research, students accepted that online friendships could not create a bond like real-life friendships.
Why are the students finding it difficult to stay away from their phones?
The study revealed that 48.2 per cent of the students check their phones as soon as they hear a notification. 43.9 per cent accepted that they had no specific time to use phones, so they check their phones any time without any reason. Almost 70 per cent of the students said that they wanted to stay away from social media for some time but were unable to do so.
What has become the reason for the stress?
In the study, 61 per cent of the girls feel sad or stressed because of negative comments and trolling. 43.9 per cent believe that show-off culture is increasing on social media. 41.5 per cent believe that it is affecting their real identity. Also, 14.6 per cent said that social media made them spend more than required.
What did the study say?
Gen Z is the first generation that was exposed to the internet and social media since their childhood. This gave them new opportunities but also problems like comparison, loneliness, stress, and excessive dependence on social media also increased.
What did the research suggest for the students?
The research suggests that the students must do digital detox from time to time. They should spend more time with their family. Gen Z must focus on making real friends and not just focus on getting more likes and followers on social media. Real life relations play an important part in improving mental health.
