Analysis of the impact of social networks on modern teenagers

Abstract

The present study is devoted to the analysis of the impact of social networks on modern adolescents. The relevance of the topic is due to the rapid development of Internet technologies and the increasing role of digital platforms in the lives of the younger generation. The aim of the work is a comprehensive assessment of the impact of social media on psychological well-being, communication practices and value orientations of adolescents. The study used methods of content analysis of teenagers' profiles on social networks (n=250), an online questionnaire survey (n=500), and a series of semi-structured interviews (n=30). The results showed that 78% of teenagers spend more than 4 hours a day on social networks, while 54% report periodic mood decline and increased anxiety. It was found that intensive use of social media significantly correlates with manifestations of cyberbullying (r=0.67; p<0.01) and the risk of Internet addiction (r=0.74; p<0.01). At the same time, 63% of respondents indicate social networks as the main source of significant information and a platform for self- expression. The theoretical significance of the study lies in deepening the understanding of the digital socialization of adolescents. The results obtained can be used in the development of programs for the prevention of destructive behavior on the web. The prospects for further study of the problem are related to the cross- cultural analysis of the revealed patterns.