Abstract:
Technological advancements are frequent and have brought the population around the world closer together. However, this has a drastic effect on how people interact with, and are influenced by each other. This conformation to a social media identity thus puts the wellbeing of young adults at risk. Young adults are constantly being influenced by current trends in social media and to constructing and conforming to a social media identity that impacts their actual life in drastic ways. For example, their physical appearance, self-esteem, personal relationships, and economic status. A qualitative study, using in-depth interviews with three South African participants, was conducted and allowed through thematic analysis participants to provide a more detailed explanation and the ability to clarify the point/position they are trying to make. The study’s findings indicated that social media does indeed have an influence on young adult’s identity formation through various dimensions of their life in line with Tajfel and Turner’s (1986) Social Identity Theory. Moreover, results have indicated that early intervention and teaching is required and advised to be conducted from an early age. This research has added to the body of knowledge through the Indian perspective/lens in Durban, South Africa.
