An investigation into the experiences of adolescents using social media technology

Hammond, Joanna 2017. An investigation into the experiences of adolescents using social media technology. DEdPsy Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

Social media technology (SMT) has become central to adolescent life with 96% of teenagers having a SMT profile (Coughlan, 2016). Previous literature has either investigated the discretely positive or negative implications for adolescent development or adopted a broad, quantitative approach lacking depth and validity. This qualitative study examined the experiences of adolescents who use SMT in a balanced, yet rich and detailed way. A constructivist-interpretive approach was adopted and 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted using a sample of 14-18 year olds and analysed through the 6-stage process of thematic analysis outlined by Braun and Clarke (2006). The findings present a balanced, yet complex interaction between positive (e.g. feeling connected to friends and able to express true/ideal self) and negative (e.g. destruction of self-esteem/self-image and long-lasting feelings of distress) implications for adolescent wellbeing and development and offer a nuanced perspective on the use of SMT within this demographic, with suggestions for holistic support and intervention.

Item Type:	Thesis (DEdPsy)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > Psychology
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Funders:	Welsh Government
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	10 July 2017
Date of Acceptance:	7 July 2017
Last Modified:	12 Nov 2021 13:31
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/102185

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