The relationship of individual self-esteem on the uses and gratifications of Facebook

Abstract

This study focuses on individuals with considerably low self-esteem or high self-esteem, and how they contrast in personal and social outcomes during Facebook use. This study hypothesized that those with low self-esteem have different motives when joining Facebook. Time spent on Facebook was assessed, as well as the differing drives for using Facebook for both low and high self-esteem samples. Are those with low self-esteem using Facebook differently than those with normal to high self-esteem? My hypothesis predicted that those with lower self-esteem use tools such as Facebook more often as an aid in socializing and connecting. The amount of time spent on Facebook may be higher for individuals with low self-esteem in seeking gratification and approval via social media. An online survey was conducted that encompassed demographic information, self-esteem assessment, and use of social networks. Correlations were computed regarding the relationship between the variables of self-esteem and Facebook use. The survey consists of three sections and 75 questions, including the 58 questions taken from the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory (Coopersmith, 1981). The research study utilized the Facebook website as a distribution tool. The study found a weak correlation between Facebook usage characteristics and varying levels of self-esteem. More research would be needed to interpret the areas of association within this study. Past studies with a larger participant pool have found significant correlations between Facebook usage and levels of self-esteem.