The Relationship Between Facebook Users and Disorders of the self

Read the assigned research study abstract and submit a written summary that includes the following – purpose of the study, type of quantitative study (survey, program evaluation, quasi-experiment, etc.), and major findings.

Assignments are due by Wednesday at 11:55 pm CST.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FACEBOOK USE AND DISORDERS OF THE SELF

A Dissertation Submitted to the Faculty of the Institute for Clinical Social Work in Partial Fulfillment for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy

By SUZANNE BLAISING

Abstract

With the advent of social networking sites, the face-to-face interactions and social life of many Facebook users have been impacted by online interactions. This study explores the connection between the use of Facebook and narcissism levels in 18 to 29- year-olds. Using quantitative methodology, 123 participants, 68 male and 55 female ranging in age from 18 to 29 were randomly selected and administered an online survey. The data from this study shows that Facebook use has a tendency to become habitual or integrated into the daily habits of its users. These respondents increasingly used Facebook as a means to communicate, share, show, seek attention, and to connect with others. The results from this study suggest the longer one is on Facebook the more deeply embedded it becomes in one’s life. These online interactions do not supply the necessary ingredients for healthy self-development. The findings were further explored by age group. Particular attention was given to those within the 18 to 21-year-old age group, who at the time were 13 to 16-year-old adolescents when Facebook became part of their social life. Those in this group use Facebook most frequently and use it as a means to gain status and attention.