Abstract
The aim of the current study was to examine the role of social media in building the self-esteem of younger adolescents. Results from a cross-sectional survey ( N = 725, Mage = 11.61, SD = 1.01) provided support for a serial mediation between online self-presentation and self-esteem through both perceived online popularity and the need for popularity. Specifically, we found that self-presentation on social media was positively related to pre- and early adolescents’ self-esteem, via their perceived online popularity (e.g. receiving “likes”). However, results also revealed a relationship between online popularity and users’ need for popularity, which was in turn negatively associated with self-esteem. Findings indicate that when pre- and early adolescents engage in online self-presentation, they can generate feedback such as likes on social media. Although such positive appraisals are positively associated with their self-esteem, they also appear to provoke an increased dependence on social approval, which is paradoxically related to decreased self-esteem.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
