The thesis examines the impact of social media on the construction of self-image among young people. The theoretical part first defines the concept of youth, focusing on individuals aged between 15 and 29. Furthermore the concept of self-image, its development and its importance during adolescence are presented as adolescence represents a key developmental period for forming our own identity. The thesis also addresses social media, its characteristics and both positive and negative consequences of their use among young people.
The empirical part is based on a qualitative, exploratory and empirical study conducted through semi-structured interviews with young people from the Municipality of Vrhnika. The aim of the research was to explore how young people experience their self-image during and after using social media, which trends influence them the most, what obstacles they encounter and how they perceive the impact of social media on their quality of life.
The results of the study indicate that social media has a significant impact on young people’s perception of self-worth. Although young people also recognize many positive aspects of social media, their use is more frequently associated with the emergence of negative emotions and increased self-criticism. Moreover, adolescents often do not recognize the everyday influence of social media on their mood and self-image.
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