Like and Subscribe to Yourself: Social Media's Influence on Undergraduate and Postgraduate Students’ Identity Formation

Background: The extensive incorporation of social media into the everyday experiences of Generation Z has significantly altered their self-perception and their interactions with their environment. This transformation has generated both concern and curiosity regarding its effects on personal growth and identity formation. Objectives: The research investigated this trend among both undergraduate and postgraduate students by analysing their social media engagement habits and the subsequent influence on different dimensions of their overall well-being. Materials and Methods: A Google Forms survey was conducted with 440 students from Guntur and Vijayawada, including both genders. It aimed to assess social, mental, and physical health, focusing on sleep patterns, stress, diet, and academic performance. The data was analysed using SPSS for descriptive statistics and percentage calculations. Results: Research findings indicated that a significant number of students regularly engaged with social media before sleep, which interfered with their sleep patterns and heightened anxiety associated with the fear of missing out. Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge that social media also serve as a valuable resource for educational assistance, a medium for personal expression, and a tool for sustaining social relationships. Conclusion: The research reveals that social media plays a dual role in shaping youth identities, acting as both a connector and a disruptor. While it facilitates information sharing and social interaction, overuse can harm mental and physical health. These findings underscore the need for strategies that encourage balanced social media use, maximising benefits while reducing risks.