Psychology of Aesthetics: A Social Cognitive Perspective of

Teenagers in the Age of the Social Media Content

RATIONALE

Technology advancement has led to a rise in popularity for social media. In

actuality, it is influencing how we live more and more. Social media does, however, have
advantages and disadvantages, just like any other technology. There are many
advantages and disadvantages to consider, particularly when it comes to the influence of
social media on teenagers. In today's teen society, social media is quite important. 90%
of teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 have used social media, according to
surveys. Seventy-five percent say they have at least one social media profile that is
active, and 51 percent say they visit a social media site at least once each day (American
Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 2023). Teens now have the opportunity to
share their lives with others through images, videos, and status updates on social media.
These platforms are cited by teens as a crucial resource for building and maintaining
relationships, being creative, and expanding their worldview. However, individuals also
have to deal with more unfavorable aspects of social media use, like drama and bullying
or feeling under pressure to show themselves in a certain way.

This study is motivated by a desire to determine whether social media content

contributes to today's teens' increased anxiety and low self-esteem. The restricted focus
of this paper is on how teenagers perceive and compare their own worth as they view
content on social media from a social cognitive approach. Thus, it is important to
investigate and comprehend the key psychological processes that are involved in
teenagers' online connection in order to uncover the mechanisms by which social media
use may lead to problematic participation. The current study will utilize a qualitative
examination with teenagers to understand these dynamic processes.

Proposed Main Research Questions:

1. What types of posts typically appear on social media where teenagers tend to reflect?
2. How do teenagers respond to media content that they socially perceive?
3. What do teens insights about the possibility that socially perceived media content could
alter behavioural patterns?

Theoretical Lens
- Social Cognitive Theory - Attachment Theory
- Observational Learning Theory - Source Credibility Theory
Aacap., (2023). Social Media and Teens. Retrieved from:
https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/
Social-Media-and-Teens-100.aspx