Binghamton Research Days Student Presentations

HongAaliyah.pdf

Preventing Teen Suicide in the United States: Investigating the Impacts of Social Isolation and Social Media 

Authors: Aaliyah Hong

Field of Study: Social Sciences

Mentor: Sonja Kim, Asian and Asian American Studies

Abstract

Teen suicide is a growing public health concern. Research shows that social isolation as a whole and social media are major contributing factors to teen suicide in the United States.  Social media refers to online platforms and tools that allow users to create, share, and exchange information, ideas, and opinions through virtual networks and communities, such as Instagram, Tik Tok, Twitter, and Facebook. Through an analysis of academic databases, scientific studies, public health information, and personal stories, focusing on the adolescent age group of 13-19, I will identify evidence-based prevention strategies we may implement. The overall goal of the study is to raise awareness surrounding and assessing the pernicious effects of social isolation and social media. Findings may pave the way for the development of effective measures to reduce the risk of teen suicide in the United States.