Mirror or Magnifying Glass? Exploring the Impact of Negative Social Media Comments on Student Self-Worth

Abstract

Social media is a central part of modern life, offering students a platform for self-expression and connection with others. However, the study addresses the challenge of how negative comments on personal posts impact students' self-worth and explores the coping strategies they employ to navigate such experiences. The study employed a narrative inquiry design conducted at San Isidro College to explore students' experiences of negative social media comments. Eight participants were purposively selected using criterion sampling, and data were collected through in-depth interviews guided by a validated questionnaire. The study found that negative comments on social media deeply affect students' self-worth, leading to low self-esteem, social anxiety, appearance-based insecurities, and emotional distress. In response, students employ coping strategies such as seeking emotional support, fostering self-motivation, taking social media hiatuses, and dismissing criticism. These findings highlight the dual nature of social media as both a source of vulnerability and an opportunity for resilience and self-growth.