AN ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON MENTAL HEALTH: A SOCIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract :
Within the realm of sociology, various methodologies are employed to comprehend social problems, encompassing both theoretical and pragmatic perspectives. The sociological approach within the field of sociology is predicated upon the utilisation of both theoretical frameworks and methodological procedures to assess social issues, encompassing fundamental and applied research methodologies. Specifically, social issues have an impact on various aspects of society, including social institutions, governmental entities, religious organisations, and individuals (Leon-Guerrero, 2011). As posited by sociologist Anna Leon-Guerrero (2007, p. 8), social problems can be defined as social conditions or behavioural patterns that yield adverse effects for individuals, our social fabric, or our physical environment. Consequently, the existence of social problems necessitates the presence of corresponding social remedies. It is noteworthy that social problems exhibit variation among individuals. According to Leon-Guerrero (2007), societal challenges encompass privately or publicly held ideals that face situational threats. In brief, social problems can be understood as a product of the subjective and relative construction of reality, or as an objective manifestation with consequential effects (Leon-Guerrero, 2011, p. 9). On the other hand, it is important to note that individuals who possess expertise in sociology are not universally present, and the process of delineating social issues is contingent upon the viewpoints embraced, the methodologies employed, and the means by which the identified problems are comprehended or assessed (Leon-Guerrero, 2011).