ABSTRACT 

This study investigates the impact of social media on self-perception among learners aged 14 to 18 in Grades 8 to 12. As adolescents increasingly engage with social media, understanding how these interactions shape their self-image and identity is crucial. Using a mixed-methods approach, we collected qualitative data from students to explore social media’s influence on self-worth, body image, and social comparison. While social media fosters self-expression and connection, it also contributes to anxiety and diminished self-esteem due to exposure to idealized self-images and lifestyles. Peer feedback and social comparison play a significant role in shaping adolescents’ self-perception. This study underscores the need for educational programs, such as workshops, to encourage critical thinking, promote a positive body image, and foster mindful social media use. By equipping adolescents with tools to navigate social media responsibly, we can support their development of a healthy self-image in an increasingly digital world.

Keywords: Self-perception, Social media, Body image, Social comparison, and Adolescent