The influences of Instagram towards young females' mental health in Selangor, Malaysia

Loi, Yuen Wah (2024) The influences of Instagram towards young females' mental health in Selangor, Malaysia. Final Year Project, UTAR.

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Abstract

This study investigates the impact of Instagram on the mental health of young females in Selangor, Malaysia, focusing on their usage motivations and psychological effects. With the widespread adoption of social media, it is crucial to understand its influence on mental well-being. The research aims to identify the primary reasons young females in Selangor use Instagram and to assess how their engagement with the platform affects their mental health. This study used a qualitative research approach which employs a questionnaire to 50 respondents, active Instagram users who are aged 15 to 40 years old. The data in this study gathered by using Google Form and analyzed by using Microsoft Excel and SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) to have a better understanding of the diverse impact of Instagram on mental health of the young females. Initial findings show that Instagram is used for social connection, following influencers, discovering trends, and seeking validation. However, these motivations also lead to psychological issues such as feelings of inadequacy, social comparison, and pressure to present an idealized image, negatively affecting self-esteem and mental health. Conversely, some users find Instagram beneficial for self-expression and social connectivity. The study highlights both positive and negative aspects of Instagram, aiming to inform policymakers, educators, and mental health professionals about its complex effects on young females and guide strategies to enhance its benefits while mitigating adverse impacts. KEYWORDS: young female, mental health, usage motivation, psychological issues, social media

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