Faculty Sponsor
Matthew Ringenberg
College
Arts and Sciences
Discipline(s)
Social Work
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Symposium Date
Spring 5-1-2020
Abstract
Previous studies have established a link between mental health and social media usage. That research has shown that social media usage in students can be detrimental to their self-esteem, motivation, and generalized anxiety. This study focused on the effects of social media usage on high school students. The hypothesis was that high social media usage would be associated with student mental health. This study included surveying high school students in the Northwest Indiana area. These surveys asked questions regarding how often the students used social media, what they used it for, and what their perceived stress and anxiety levels were regarding social media usage. This study is important because it brings awareness to the community on how social media can have an impact. The presenters include senior Social Work majors Nancy Engel, Kimberly Mullins, and Emma Brandy. The sponsor of this research is Professor Dr. Matthew Ringenberg, the Valparaiso University Social Work Department Chair.
Recommended Citation
Brandy, Emma; Engel, Nancy; and Mullins, Kimberly, "Social Media and it's Effects on Mental Health of High School Students" (2020). Symposium on Undergraduate Research and Creative Expression (SOURCE). 888.
https://scholar.valpo.edu/cus/888
Biographical Information about Author(s)
Emma Brandy is a senior Social Work major and Psychology minor at Valparaiso University. After graduation, Emma plans to attend Loyola University Chicago to earn her Master of Social Work. Emma is currently interning at Porter-Strake Services.
Nancy Engel is a senior Social Work major at Valparaiso University. After graduation, Nancy will be attending Dominican University to earn her Master of Social Work. Nancy is currently interning at Dunebrook and was offered a part-time position when she graduates.