Republic of the Philippines

Department of Education
Region V – Bicol
Division of Sorsogon
GALLANOSA NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
San Pedro , Irosin , Sorsogon

NAVIGATING IDENTITY IN THE DIGITAL AGE:

EXAMINING THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON SELF – ESTEEM AND SELF
– IMAGE

Mark Jerome G. Garcia

Syrah May B. Abainza
Claudine P. Macario
Beyonce P. Ginga

A THESIS SUBMITTED
IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS
FOR PRACTICAL RESEARCH – 1
Cyrel P. Nicolas
 CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION
This chapter will discuss the Introduction, Background of the study, Statement of the
problem, Scope and Delimitation, Significance of the study and lastly, The Definition of Terms.

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The way people view and create their identities has changed dramatically as a result of
the widespread use of social media platforms. With the development of social media and the
internet, the distinction between the digital and physical selves has become increasingly hazy,
complexly influencing how one presents and perceives oneself.
This study seeks to explore the intricate and evolving relationship between social media
usage, self-esteem, and self-image. This research has consistently indicated that social media's
impact on self-esteem is multifaceted. On one hand, the constant stream of feedback in the form
of likes, comments, and followers can provide a substantial boost to self-esteem by offering
validation, social approval, and a sense of belonging (Lee et al., 2021; Krasnova et al., 2019;
Vogel et al., 2015). However, idealized online personas and the constant exposureto the carefully
curated lives of peers can exacerbate self-esteem issues (Leung et al., 2019; Tandoc et al., 2015;
Perloff, 2014). Such exposure can trigger unhealthy social comparisons, leading to feelings of
inadequacy and a sense of falling short of the idealized standards set by one's online
counterparts.
The progress of social media has significantly impacted self-image. Recent studies
indicate that individuals often present an idealized, curated version of themselves online
(Schaefer et al., 2020; Fardouly et al., 2018; Manago et al., 2012). The desire to craft an
aspirational online identity can lead to a profound disconnect between the online and offline
personas, giving rise to identity confusion. This highlights the importance of understanding how
the online personas individuals create can significantly affect their self-concept and overall self-
image. As we delve into this dynamic, it's crucial to recognize the continuous evolution of social
media platforms and their influence on identity construction. The rise of influencer culture has
introduced new dimensions to the concept of digital identity (Manago et al., 2012). Influencers
serve as role models, shaping the self-image and self-esteem of their followers. The ever-
changing landscape of algorithm-driven content on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and
YouTube presents a unique challenge. These algorithms determine the content users see and
interact with, directly affecting the construction of digital identities and the self-esteem and self-
image of users. Furthermore, growing concerns about online privacy and security have the
potential to alter how individuals present themselves online ( Toma et al., 2013). The tension
between the desire for self-expression and the need for privacy can impact the authenticity of
online identities, leading to a reassessment of the role of digital personas.

PEW Research Center (2018), states that social media has a big impact on how young
individuals feel about themselves. Young Individuals see so many perfect and edited pictures all
the time, feeling like you have to look a certain way, and wanting people to like and comment on
your posts can make you feel bad about yourself and not think highly of yourself. Also, Rachel
Cruze (2023), said that people are always comparing themselves to others and being mean to each
other online can make these negative effects even worse.

Social media is now a dominant force in influencing how we think of ourselves and those
around us. It provides us with the chance to carefully craft and showcase an idealized image of
ourselves to the public. This means that we can control how we are perceived online. However,
this ability to mold our online identities, combined with the prevalent culture of comparing
ourselves to others on these platforms, has raised worries about the detrimental effects of social
media on our self-esteem and how we see ourselves. The study of how individuals navigate their
identities in the digital age through social media is not a static endeavor. Instead, it is a dynamic
field of research that is continually evolving as the digital landscape transforms. By examining
research findings, we can gain a deeper understanding of the intricate and evolving relationship
between social media, self-esteem, and self-image. We can also gain insights into how these
relationships have adapted and responded to the evolving trends and technologies in the digital
age.

Based on observations made at Gallanosa National High School, the researchers made the
decision to carry out this study in order to comprehend how people navigate their identities in
reaction to the ever-changing and dynamic digital environment.
 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

This study aims to investigate the relationship between social media use and offline self-
esteem, to identify digitally age-appropriate interventions that are effective, and to comprehend
the wider implications on self-image.

1. How do individuals manage their online identities on social media and how does this
impact their offline self-esteem?
2. What interventions improve self-esteem in the digital age influenced by social media?
3. How does social media affect self-esteem and self-image?

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The result of the study may be significant to the following:

Students. The findings of this study may give students more confidence in their online
presence by revealing the complex relationship between social media, self-worth, and self-image.
Furthermore, the study may provide students with techniques to navigate digital environments
with greater assurance, promoting a stronger and more resilient sense of self in the digital era.

Teachers. The study's findings may provide educators with new perspectives on how
social media affects students' self-worth and self-image, allowing them to modify their teaching
strategies to support students' positive digital personas. Teachers can assist students in navigating
the complexity of identity in the digital age more effectively by having a better understanding of
these influences.

Parents. The study may help parents by providing them with knowledge about how
social media usage may affect their kids' self-esteem and self-image. The findings may facilitate a
healthier digital environment for the development of positive identities by assisting parents in
navigating and directing their kids' online experiences.

Community. The findings of this study may offer the community useful
information about how social media affects people's self-esteem and self-image in the
digital age. A positive digital environment for improved well-being and the promotion of
healthier online behaviors could be the goals of community initiatives and educational
programs that benefit from the information gathered.

SCOPE AND DELIMITATION

SCOPE
This study focuses on examining the impact of social media platforms, including
Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, etc., on the self-perception and self-worth of G11
HUMSS A students in the context of the digital age. Specifically, the investigation aims to
explore how the use of these platforms influences aspects such as self-esteem, body image, and
overall self-perception among the target group. The study will consider both positive and
negative effects, including the influence on perceptions of beauty, popularity, and overall worth.

DELIMITATION
This study is restricted to G11 HUMSS A students in recognition of the possibility of
differences in social media use, self-worth, and self-image among various student populations.
While the study acknowledges the potential role of comparison, cyberbullying, and online
validation in shaping self-esteem, it may not fully cover all influencing factors as it will primarily
concentrate on the identified social media platforms. This study does not investigate remedies or
interventions for the factors that have been found to have an impact on self-esteem and self-
image.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

Digital Age: The era characterized by the widespread use of digital technologies, the
internet, and electronic communication, which has transformed the way people interact, access
information, and construct their identities.

Influence: The power of social media to affect or alter one's beliefs, behaviors, and self-
perception, often through exposure to content, peer comparisons, and social validation.
 Navigating Identity: The process of individuals exploring and defining their sense of
self, encompassing personal values, beliefs, and self-concept, particularly in the context of the
digital age and social media.

Self-Esteem: The evaluation and perception individuals have of their self-worth,

confidence, and self-acceptance. It can be influenced by various factors, including social media
interactions and feedback.

Self-Image: The mental and emotional representation individuals have of their physical
appearance, abilities, and personality traits. Social media can shape self-image through the
sharing and consumption of images and content.

Social Media: Online platforms and networks that enable users to create, share, and
interact with content, fostering digital connections and communities. Examples include Facebook,
Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.

These terms are crucial in understanding the complex relationship between social media and the
development of self-esteem and self-image in the digital age.