Beyond the Screen: How Social Media Shapes Mental Health, Physical Health, and Academics

Authors

Olivia Myers, Boise State UniversityFollow
Shikhar Sarin, Boise State UniversityFollow
Dean Barber, Boise State UniversityFollow
James Hodges, Boise State UniversityFollow
Bella Lee, Boise State UniversityFollow
Mollee Pocha, Boise State UniversityFollow
Taylor Van Dyke, Boise State UniversityFollow

Document Type

Student Presentation

Presentation Date

4-15-2025

Faculty Sponsor

Dr. Shikhar Sarin

Abstract

1. Objective: The purpose of this research study was to find the correlation between social media and 18-25 year olds.
2. Methodology: We collected survey data using Qualtrics online survey tool. We posted the survey to our social media utilizing our social media network.
3. Sample: We received completed surveys from 182 respondents out of the 245 respondents who either did not qualify or did not finish. The average age of respondents in our sample was 21 and varied from 18 - 25. We had 121 females and 61 males for the majority of the sample.
4. Analysis: We analyzed the data using SPSS statistical software and primarily conducted T - tests. We also used cross tabulations to see correlation between the variables.
5. Key Findings: The pattern of our results suggest that females compare themselves to others more than males
   1. Females have poorer mental health than males because of this
   2. Females rate themselves lower for physical health too
   3. Social media promotes negative comparison
   4. Social media reduces sleep, is a distraction before bed and during exercise.

Recommended Citation

Myers, Olivia; Sarin, Shikhar; Barber, Dean; Hodges, James; Lee, Bella; Pocha, Mollee; and Van Dyke, Taylor, "Beyond the Screen: How Social Media Shapes Mental Health, Physical Health, and Academics" (2025). 2025 Undergraduate Research Showcase. 26.
https://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/under_showcase_2025/26