Impact Of Social Media On Adolescents' Self-Esteem And Procrastination

Abstract

The pervasive influence of social media in adolescents' lives has raised concerns about its effects on psychological and behavioral aspects, particularly self-esteem and academic procrastination. This study examines the impact of social media usage on adolescents' self-esteem and procrastination tendencies using a cross-sectional quantitative approach. A sample of 200 adolescents (100 males and 100 females) aged 13–19 years, actively using social media, was selected from urban and semi-urban schools. Data were collected using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) and the Academic Procrastination Scale (APS), along with a self-reported questionnaire on social media usage patterns.
Findings indicate a dual impact of social media: while moderate engagement fosters social connectivity and information access, excessive usage is significantly associated with lower self-esteem and higher academic procrastination. Adolescents frequently exposed to idealized online representations experience self-comparisons that contribute to diminished self-worth. Additionally, time spent on social media often replaces productive academic engagement, leading to increased procrastination. Correlational and regression analyses further suggest that self-esteem mediates the relationship between social media usage and academic procrastination.

These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions promoting balanced digital habits, self-esteem enhancement, and improved time management among adolescents. Parents, educators, and policymakers must collaborate to create awareness and establish guidelines that encourage responsible social media use, ensuring adolescents navigate both their digital and academic worlds effectively.