Navigating the Digital Self-impacts of Social Media and Virtual Identity on Psychological Well-being

Description

Page: 977-979

Manish and Mamta Vyas (Department of Humanities and Languages, Sri Satya Sai University of Technology and Medical Sciences, Sehore, Madhya Pradesh)

The digital age has revolutionized how individuals view themselves, engage socially, and develop their identities, bringing both opportunities and major psychological concerns. This article analyzes how continual exposure to social media, curated online identities, and algorithm-driven material effects self-esteem and psychological well-being, particularly among teenagers and young adults. The phenomena of social comparison, validation-seeking behavior, cyberbullying, and exposure to unattainable beauty standards are studied as important contributors to mental distress, anxiety, sadness, and lower self-worth. Drawing on multidisciplinary research from psychology, digital media studies, and global mental health surveys, this study underscores the paradox of hyperconnectivity, where increasing digital connection typically leads to reduced emotional well-being (Accordino & Accordino, 2011). The research finishes by arguing for digital resilience frameworks, media literacy education, and holistic mental health strategies to safeguard people in an increasingly virtual society.