Booth Id:
BEHA022
Category:
Behavioral and Social Sciences
Year:
2026
Finalist Names:
Negron Lopez, Isabela (School: Brigida Alvarez Rodriguez Mathematics and Science High School)
Abstract:
This research examined how social media use influences the social acceptance of adolescents aged 14 to 16. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to determine whether social media contributes to social acceptance or increases the need for external validation. If teens use social media more frequently, then the influence of social media on their perception of social acceptance will increase, due to factors such as comparison with others, the importance of likes, and social pressure to post content. Data was collected from a sample of 43 adolescents using a structured questionnaire that measured the importance of social media approval through social comparison, emotional impact and perceived social pressure. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze collect data from surveys. The results revealed consistently low levels of social acceptance need and emotional pressure associated with social media use. Mean scores across variables ranged from 1.14 to 2.14, corresponding to the response categories “Nothing” and “Little.” Medians were located at values of 1 or 2, indicating that at least half of the participants reported low levels of pressure and acceptance-seeking behaviors. The predominant mode was 1, confirming that minimal dependence on social validation was the most frequent response. Overall, the findings indicate that social media use does not significantly negatively affect social acceptance in this sample and highlight the importance of balanced and responsible social media use.
Awards Won: