Question

Write a 1-2 paragraph Purpose Statement: it explains what type of research I am doing to fit or address the problem.

It must include:

Explain your testable question (Part 1)
Description of the Method of Study (Part 1)
Variables (Part 1)
Identify Specific Populations involved
Discuss potential hypotheses (Choose from Part 1 topic: impact of social media on mental health

Answer 1

Purpose Statement: The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between social media use and mental health by asking the testable question: "How do the amount (hours/day) and type (passive scrolling vs. active engagement, platform content) of social media use relate to levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms among adolescents and young adults?" To answer this, I will conduct a mixed-methods longitudinal study combining (1) repeated online surveys over six months using validated mental health measures (PHQ-9, GAD-7, and a well-being scale) and self-reported social media behavior, and (2) optional passive digital usage logs (time on platform, frequency, types of interactions) for more objective measurement. Independent variables include social media exposure (time, frequency, type of activity, platform); dependent variables are mental health outcomes (depression, anxiety, well-being). Covariates and control variables will include age, gender, socioeconomic status, prior mental health history, sleep, and offline social support.

The study will focus on specific populations at higher risk or high-use groups: adolescents (13–17), emerging adults (18–25), and a comparative adult sample (26–35) to explore developmental differences. Potential hypotheses include: (a) Greater total time spent on social media and higher levels of passive scrolling will be positively associated with increased depressive and anxiety symptoms over time; (b) Active, supportive engagement (positive interactions, community participation) will be associated with stable or improved well-being; and (c) the relationship between social media use and mental health will be moderated by offline social support and sleep quality, such that high offline support and adequate sleep attenuate negative associations. Statistical analyses will use multivariable regression and longitudinal growth models, with mediation/moderation tests to evaluate these hypotheses.