SOCIAL MEDIA AND SELF-IMAGE AMONG YOUTHS IN OSUN STATE

Abstract

The concept of self-image cuts across every human irrespective of their age and level of maturity and it cannot be discussed without mentioning the media particularly, the internet. Research showed that it can affect how they perceive themselves especially when they compare who they are to who they think they are supposed to be. This study investigated social media and Self-Image Among Osun State Youths. This study was anchored on the Cultivation Effect Theory and Selective Process Theory. The study adopted descriptive survey method, using a structured questionnaire to generate data from a sample size of 400 respondents drawn from across Osun State through non-probability sampling technique. The findings of this study showed that social media can affect how youth perceive themselves. And that majority (43.7%) of youths as revealed, make fashion choices based on trends. Also, it was discovered that respondents, (38%) monitor likes and comments on their posts. This shows that individuals are interested in what people think about them. In addition, the study also discovered that individuals have a perception about the person they want to become, as seen in the social media because it is trending and they (21.2%) want to be influential. The study recommends that, media literacy should be reinforced in order to bring consumers of media content to reality. Social media users should be exposed to what is true and what is false. Orientations should be done about the vast advantages of social media. Many are not so exposed to this in Nigeria. There should be age restrictions and proper monitoring of teenagers in order to protect them from social media vices.