Background of the Study
Social media addiction has become an increasingly recognized issue in the modern age, particularly among adolescents. The widespread use of social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter has contributed to significant changes in social dynamics, communication patterns, and access to information. While social media offers a range of benefits, such as facilitating connections and providing platforms for self-expression, excessive use has been linked to a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem (Smith & Walker, 2024).
Adolescents, who are in a crucial stage of emotional and psychological development, are particularly susceptible to the negative effects of social media addiction. This is partly due to the high degree of peer influence and the increased desire for social validation during this developmental period (Miller et al., 2023). The repercussions of prolonged social media use on adolescent mental health are evident in various clinical settings, with many adolescents presenting with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and disrupted sleep patterns related to their social media use.
Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Uyo, located in Akwa Ibom State, serves a diverse range of patients, including adolescents struggling with various mental health disorders. While much has been discussed globally about the impact of social media on adolescent mental health, there is limited research specifically focusing on the prevalence and effects of social media addiction within Nigerian adolescents. This study aims to examine the relationship between social media addiction and mental health among adolescents, particularly within the context of treatment at Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Uyo.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the increasing prevalence of social media use, there is a lack of empirical research addressing the effects of social media addiction on adolescent mental health in Nigeria. Adolescents in Akwa Ibom State and other parts of Nigeria are exposed to social media platforms that may affect their psychological well-being. It is crucial to assess how addiction to these platforms might contribute to mental health disorders among adolescents in Nigeria, particularly in a clinical setting where many of these individuals seek treatment for related conditions.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on adolescents aged 13-19 years who are receiving treatment for mental health issues at Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Uyo, between 2023 and 2025. Limitations include the reliance on self-reported data for assessing social media usage, which may be influenced by social desirability bias. Additionally, the study may not be able to control for all confounding variables contributing to mental health disorders.
Definitions of Terms
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