1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of Study
The growing influence of social media on various aspects of society has revolutionized communication, self-expression, and information dissemination, particularly among the youth. With platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok dominating the digital landscape, social media has become an integral part of the daily lives of young people, providing them with a space to connect, share experiences, and express their opinions (Pew Research Center, 2021). However, alongside the positive aspects of social media, such as increased connectivity and social support, there are significant concerns about its impact on mental health, especially regarding the perpetuation of mental health stigma among young people.
Mental health stigma refers to the negative attitudes, stereotypes, and discrimination towards individuals experiencing mental health issues (Corrigan, 2004). For many young people, social media is one of the primary sources of information about mental health, yet the content on these platforms can often present an oversimplified or distorted view of mental health, contributing to negative perceptions and reinforcing harmful stereotypes. The portrayal of mental health issues in a sensationalized or stigmatizing manner can lead to feelings of shame and reluctance to seek help among those experiencing mental health challenges (Yap, Reavley, & Jorm, 2013).
On the other hand, social media also has the potential to play a positive role in reducing mental health stigma. Over the years, there has been a growing trend of mental health awareness campaigns and support networks on social media, with influencers, organizations, and individuals sharing personal stories, mental health resources, and messages of support (Naslund et al., 2016).
The rapid growth of social media platforms in recent years has had profound implications for various aspects of society, particularly among the youth. Social media has become an essential tool for communication, self-expression, and social engagement, shaping the way young people interact with the world and perceive themselves. However, while social media has the potential to foster positive connections and raise awareness, it also contributes to the amplification of negative stereotypes and stigma surrounding mental health. Mental health stigma, especially among the youth, remains a significant barrier to seeking help and addressing mental health issues (Corrigan & Watson, 2002).
The role of social media in either perpetuating or mitigating this stigma has become a topic of increasing concern. On one hand, social media can act as a double-edged sword, where exposure to negative portrayals of mental health issues may reinforce harmful stereotypes, but on the other hand, it has the potential to break down stigma through open discussions, support groups, and awareness campaigns (Naslund et al., 2016). The complex relationship between social media and mental health stigma is crucial for understanding how young people perceive mental health and how they navigate seeking help in a digital world. Therefore, this study seeks to fill this gap by assessing the role of social media in shaping mental health stigma among the youth, focusing on both the negative and positive influences.
1.2 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that studies have shown that stigmatizing views about mental illness are particularly prominent among adolescents and young adults, who may feel discouraged from reaching out due to fears of judgment or isolation (Parker et al., 2001). On the one hand, social media provides an avenue for raising awareness and fostering dialogue about mental health. Influencers, celebrities, and organizations use their platforms to share personal experiences and encourage positive mental health practices. However, on the other hand, social media is also a space where harmful portrayals of mental illness exist, often reinforcing the stigma associated with it.
The influence of social media on mental health stigma is therefore an urgent issue that requires thorough examination, as it directly impacts how youths perceive mental health, how they respond to those who struggle with mental health issues, and whether they seek help when needed (Naslund et al., 2016). The problem is compounded by the complexity of how youths interact with social media. The rapid consumption of content, the pressures to present a curated and idealized version of one's life, and the tendency to seek validation through likes and comments may all contribute to internalized stigma.
1.3 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to assess the role of social media in shaping mental health stigma among youths. To achieve this aim, the study has the following objectives:
- To investigate how youths engage with mental health content on social media and its effect on their attitudes towards mental illness.
- To evaluate the correlation between social media use and the likelihood of youths seeking help for mental health issues.
- To assess the role of social media in spreading both positive and negative representations of mental health.
- To examine the impact of social media on the perceptions of mental health among youths.
- To identify the potential of social media as a tool for reducing mental health stigma among youths by promoting positive discourse and support networks.
1.4 Research Questions
Based on the objectives of the study, the following research questions have been formulated:
- How does social media impact youths' perceptions of mental health and mental illness?
- In what ways does social media contribute to both positive and negative portrayals of mental health issues among youths?
- How do youths engage with mental health-related content on social media, and how does this engagement influence their attitudes toward mental illness?
- What is the relationship between social media use and the likelihood of youths seeking help for mental health problems?
- How can social media be utilized as a tool to reduce mental health stigma and encourage positive mental health discussions and support among youths?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: Social media platforms with support communities and mental health awareness campaigns do not lead to a reduction in mental health stigma among youths.
- H1: Social media platforms with support communities and mental health awareness campaigns lead to a reduction in mental health stigma among youths.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: There is no significant relationship between social media use and youths' perceptions of mental health stigma.
- H1: There is a significant relationship between social media use and youths' perceptions of mental health stigma.
1.6 Significance of Study
The outcome of this research will aid mental health professionals in better addressing the concerns of youths who are influenced by the online environment. Also, youth organizations and advocacy groups will use the results of this study to develop campaigns and initiatives aimed at reducing mental health stigma among young people, leveraging social media as a tool for promoting mental health awareness and inclusion.
Furthermore, social media platform developers and content creators will benefit from this research as it will highlight the influence of their platforms in shaping public opinions on mental health. The findings will encourage them to create and promote content that challenges stigma and fosters positive mental health narratives.
Lastly, policymakers and mental health organizations will benefit from the study's findings as they will inform policy decisions and the development of public health strategies that incorporate social media platforms in their efforts to reduce mental health stigma and improve mental health outcomes for youths.
1.7 Scope of Study
The scope of this study will focus on the role of social media in shaping mental health stigma among youths in Lagos State, Nigeria. It will examine how social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok influence the attitudes and perceptions of young people towards mental health issues.
The study will involve a survey of youths aged 16 to 24 years, residing in Lagos State, who are active users of social media. The research will also include an analysis of social media content related to mental health, exploring how mental health topics are portrayed and whether these portrayals contribute to the reduction or perpetuation of stigma. The study will not be limited to any specific social media platform but will consider the impact of multiple platforms that are commonly used by the youth demographic in Nigeria.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The limitations of this study were primarily due to insufficient data, frequent power failures, delays from respondents, financial constraints, and time limitations. The collection of comprehensive data was hindered by the limited number of responses received, which may have affected the accuracy and representativeness of the findings.
Additionally, there were delays from respondents in providing their feedback, which extended the timeline for data collection and analysis.
The financial constraints faced during the study limited the ability to reach a broader sample or to implement more extensive data-gathering methods, such as in-depth interviews or focus group discussions.
Time constraints were another limiting factor, as the study was conducted within a specific period that did not allow for thorough exploration of all aspects of social media's role in mental health stigma.
1.9 Definition of Terms
Social Media:
Social media refers to digital platforms and applications that allow users to create, share, or exchange content and engage in social networking. These platforms include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok, among others. Social media has become a central tool for communication and expression, especially among the youth (Kaplan & Haenlein, 2010).
Mental Health:
Mental health is defined as a person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how they think, feel, and act. It also impacts how individuals handle stress, relate to others, and make choices (World Health Organization [WHO], 2020). Mental health encompasses a wide range of conditions, from anxiety and depression to more severe disorders like schizophrenia.
Mental Health Stigma:
Mental health stigma refers to the negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes that society holds toward individuals with mental health issues. This stigma can lead to discrimination, social exclusion, and reduced opportunities for individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Stigma is often rooted in ignorance or misinformation about mental health conditions (Corrigan, 2004).
Youth:
In the context of this study, youth refers to young individuals, typically ranging from the ages of 15 to 24 years, who are in the stage of life between adolescence and adulthood. This group is highly engaged with social media and is particularly susceptible to both positive and negative influences related to mental health (Marmot & Wilkinson, 2006).
Role of Social Media:
The role of social media refers to the ways in which social media platforms influence, shape, and contribute to various aspects of users' lives. In the context of mental health, social media plays a significant role in how youth perceive and engage with mental health issues, either by spreading awareness, reducing stigma, or sometimes exacerbating it (Naslund et al., 2016).
Social Media and Mental Health Stigma:
The relationship between social media and mental health stigma involves examining how online platforms can either challenge or reinforce societal attitudes towards mental health. While social media has been used to raise awareness and provide support, it can also perpetuate stereotypes and promote harmful narratives about mental illness (Puhl & Heuer, 2010).
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