Project 2 Applied Social Sciences

docx

School

Southern New Hampshire University *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

SCS-200-Q3

Subject

Sociology

Date

Feb 20, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

Uploaded by ProfNarwhalMaster898

SCS 200 Project 2 Presentation Progress Check Davina Lucas SCS 200: Applied Social Sciences Brittany Covati 02/18/2024

Project 2 Applied Social Sciences In Module Four: Performing the Research Investigation (Continued), learning block 4-2 (page 1) and learning block 4-3 (page 3) ; and Module Five: Tailoring the Message to an Audience, learning block 5-3 (page 3) , you completed the following work: I. Provide a brief overview identifying how the social sciences previously examined your selected issue. Include which social science disciplines have previously been used to research or explain your issue. The issue of the impact of social media on mental health has been extensively researched within the social sciences, drawing on disciplines such as psychology, sociology, communication studies, and public health. Psychologists have investigated the psychological mechanisms underlying social media use, such as the effects of social comparison, cyberbullying, and self- esteem on mental health outcomes. Sociologists have explored the societal norms and expectations that shape behavior on social media platforms, examining how cultural beliefs and values influence perceptions of body image and self-esteem. Communication studies have examined the ways in which social media influencers shape attitudes and behaviors among young adults, analyzing the role of media messages in constructing identity and self-image. Public health scholars have investigated the public health implications of excessive social media

engagement, exploring the correlations between screen time, mental health disorders, and well- being. The social sciences have provided a multidisciplinary approach to studying the impact of social networks on mental health, offering valuable insights into the complex relationships between social media use, social norms, and psychological well-being. In Module Five: Tailoring the Message to an Audience, learning block 5-2 (page 3) , you completed the following work: II. Explain how the issue impacts the audience . In other words, how is the issue relevant to members of the audience? Why should the audience care about the response to your question or the outcome of your investigation? Support your response with specific examples from your research investigation. The issue of the impact of social media on mental health is relevant and significant to various audiences, including mental health professionals, parents and caregivers, educators, social media platforms, and advocacy groups. Each of these audiences has a vested interest in the outcomes of investigations related to social media’s influence on mental health. For mental health professionals, understanding the relationship between social media usage and mental health outcomes is crucial for providing effective interventions and support to individuals struggling with mental health issues exacerbated by social media. For example, research such as the study conducted by Primack et al. (2017), which found an association between social media use and perceived social isolation, highlights the importance of mental health professionals being aware of the negative impacts of excessive social media engagement on individuals’ well-being. Parents and caregivers of children and teenagers are another audience impacted by the issue. Research findings like those from Woods & Scoot (2016), which linked social media use during adolescence to poor sleep quality, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, can serve as a warning for parents to monitor and regulate their children’s social media usage. Educators and school administrators can benefit from investigations into the impact of social media on mental health to develop strategies for promoting healthy social media use and cyber wellness among students. Research studies, such as the one conducted by Houghton et al. (2018) that explored the reciprocal relationships between depressive symptoms and screen media use during adolescence, can inform the implementation of digital literacy programs in schools to equip students with

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help

tools for navigating the digital landscape safely. Advocacy groups and organizations dedicated to mental health and well-being are also impacted by the issue as they work to raise awareness of the effects of social media on mental health and advocate for policy reforms to protect individuals from harm. Research studies such as those conducted by Twenge et al. (2018), which identified increases in depressive symptoms and suicide-related outcomes among adolescents associated with heightened screen time after 2010, underscore the urgency for advocacy groups to address the negative consequences of digital media on psychological well-being. In Module Six: Tailoring the Message to an Audience (Continued), learning block 6-1 (page 4) , you contributed to the following prompt: III. Describe the evidence you have to support your conclusions about the impact of the issue on you personally and on your audience. Support your response with specific examples from your research investigation. In investigating the impact of social media on mental health, I have discovered research findings that resonated with my personal experiences and observations. For instance, Primack et al. (2017) highlighted the association between social media use and perceived social isolation among young adults in the U.S. The findings aligned with my increasing feelings of disconnection from the real-world interactions, as my social interactions have become primarily work-related in recent years. Understanding the potential negative effects of social media on feelings of loneliness and social connection reinforced my concern for the unrestricted content on these platforms and its implications for adult mental health. Woods & Scott (2016) uncovered a troubling association between social media use during adolescence and poor sleep quality, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. This study emphasizes the detrimental effects of excessive social media on the younger generation, including my relatives, and how it may contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety and low self-esteem. Regarding the audience for my message, the evidence I have gathered from scholarly articles, such as the studies conducted by Houghton et al. (2018) and Twenge et al. (2018), underscores the importance of addressing the negative consequences of social media on mental health in various populations. Mental health professionals can benefit from understanding the complex relationship between social media use administrators can utilize the insights into the impact of social media on

adolescent mental health to implement strategies that promote healthy social media use among students. In Module Two: Exploring Social Science Issues (Continued), learning block 2-2 (page 4), you completed the following work: IV. Explain why this issue is important to you personally . In other words, why did you select this issue to investigate? As someone who has personally experienced the impact of social media on mental health, this issue is important to me on a personal level. I have noticed how social media can exacerbate feelings of loneliness, comparison, and inadequacy, leading to negative impacts on my mental well-being. By investigating the relationship between social networks and mental health, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of these issues and explore potential strategies to promote healthier social media use. As someone who is passionate about mental health and well-being, I believe that raising awareness of the potential risks associated with excessive social media engagement is crucial in today’s digital age. By shedding light on the impact of social media on mental health, I hope to contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding digital well-being and promote positive changes in how we engage with social media platforms. In Module Three: Performing the Research Investigation, learning block 3-4 (page 1) , you contributed to the following prompt: V. Illustrate how your investigation of the issue impacted the way you thought about the issue. In other words, how did thinking like a scientist to research and develop a question affect what you thought about the issue you selected? How did social scientific thinking change the lens through which you viewed the issue? Support your response with specific examples from your research investigation. My investigation of the impact of social networks on mental health has truly transformed my perspective on the issue. By approaching the topic through the lens of social science research, I have gained a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in studying the relationship between social media and mental well-being. Thinking like a scientist to research and develop a

question has allowed me to critically analyze the existing literature, consider different viewpoints, and draw a connection between various factors influencing the issue. Through my research, I have come to appreciate the multifaceted nature of the impact of social media on mental health. For example, the systematic review conducted by Primack et al. (2017) highlighted the association between social media use and perceived social isolation among young adults. This finding made me realize the potential negative effects of excessive social media engagement on feelings of loneliness and social connection, which I had not fully considered before diving into the research. Exploring studies like the one by Woods & Scott (2016) that social media use during adolescence to poor sleep quality, anxiety, depression, and low self- esteem shed light on the wide-ranging consequences of digital media consumption on mental health. This research underscored the importance of investigating not only the direct effects of social media but also its indirect impacts on overall well-being. By engaging in social scientific thinking, I have learned to approach the issue of social networks and mental health with a more critical and analytical mindset. I have come to appreciate the need for rigorous research methodologies, evidence-based interventions, and a nuanced understanding of social norms, beliefs, and values that shape individuals’ interactions with social media platforms. This approach has challenged me to consider the broader societal implications of the issue and to recognize the interconnectedness of various factors influencing mental health outcomes in the digital age. In Module Five: Tailoring the Message to an Audience, learning block 5-2 (page 3), learning block 5-3 (page 3), and learning block 6-1 (page 4) , you began working on the following section of the prompt: VI. Communicate your message in a way that is tailored to your specific audience. For instance, you could consider your vocabulary, your audience’s potential current natural science knowledge or lack thereof, and what is specifically important to the audience. To Mental Health Professionals The impact of social media on mental health is a growing concern, and your expertise is crucial in addressing this issue. By focusing on evidence-based interventions and research studies, you can help individuals navigate the complex relationship between social media use and mental health well-being effectively. Your insights can contribute

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help

to promoting healthier social media habits and supporting individuals in maintaining positive mental health in the digital age. Parents and Caregivers As children and teenagers increasingly engage with social media, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and benefits associated with their online activities. By providing education on responsible social media use, recognizing warning signs of mental health issues related to social media, and encouraging open discussions about online experiences, you can support your children in developing healthy relationships with technology and promoting their mental well-being. Educators and School Administrators Incorporating digital literacy and mental health education into school curriculums can empower students to navigate social media in a safe and informed manner. By implementing strategies to address cyberbullying, promote digital well-being, and foster a positive online environment, you can play a significant role in supporting students’ mental health and empowering them to make healthy choices in their use of social networks. To Social Media Platforms and Tech Companies You have a responsibility to prioritize user well-being and create a safe and supportive online environment. By implementing features that promote positive interactions, address cyberbullying, and encourage responsible social media use, you can help mitigate the potential negative impact of social media on mental health. Collaborating with mental health experts and advocacy groups can further enhance the well- being of users on those platforms. To Advocacy Groups and Organizations Your dedication to raising awareness of the effects of social media on mental health and advocating for policy reforms is essential in creating positive change. By highlighting the need for digital well-being initiatives, promoting healthy social media practices, and advocating for regulations that prioritize user mental health, you can contribute significantly to shaping a more positive online landscape for individuals of all ages.

References 1. Primack, B. A., Shensa, A., Sidani, J. E., Whaite, E. O., Lin, L. Y., Rosen, D., ... & Miller, E. (2017). Social media use and perceived social isolation among young adults in the US. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 53(1), 1-8. 2. Twenge, J. M., Joiner, T E., Roger, M. L., & Martin, G. N. (2018). Increases in depressive symptoms, suicide-related outcomes, and suicide rates among US adolescents after 2010 and links with increased new media screen time. Clinical Psychological Science, 6(1), 3-17. 3. Kross, E., Verduyn, P., Demiralp, E., Park, J., Lee, D. S., Lin, N., ... & Ybarra, O. (2013). Facebook predicts declines in subjective well-being in young adults. PloS one, 8(8), e69841. 4. Houghton, S., Lawrence, D., Hunter, S. C., Rosenberg, M., Zadow, C., Wood, L., & Shilton, T. (2018). Reciprocal relationships between trajectories of depressive symptoms and screen media use during adolescence. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 47(11), 2453-2467 5. Woods, H. C. & Scott, H. (2016). #Sleepyteens: Social media use in adolescence is associated with poor sleep quality, anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. Journal of Adolescence, 51, 41-49.

Project 2 Applied Social Sciences

Related Documents