Scientific Method in Sociology
Margaret Mogute
Soc 1502-01
Written Assignment Unit 2
Instructor: Geo Ramsey Miller
23/04/25
The Role of the Scientific Method in Sociology
The scientific method is very important in sociology because it helps researchers study society in a
clear, organized, and unbiased way. By following specific steps—like asking questions, collecting data,
and analyzing results—sociologists can better understand social issues and avoid personal opinions
affecting their work. This method is especially useful when studying complex topics like how social
media shapes adolescent identity.
Scientific Method in Sociology
Research Proposal: How Social Media Shapes Adolescent Identity
Research Questions
How does social media affect how teenagers see themselves?
In what ways does social media influence their friendships and social connections?
How does exposure to social media change how adolescents view the world?
Hypothesis
Social media plays a big role in helping teenagers form their identities. It can help them explore who
they are, but it can also make them compare themselves to others, sometimes leading to negative
feelings or low self-esteem.
Study Design
Scientific Method in Sociology
Surveys: To collect information from many teenagers about their social media habits and feelings about
themselves.
Interviews: To get in-depth stories from a smaller group about their personal experiences with social
media.
Content Analysis: To look at what teenagers post online and how they present themselves.
Rationale: Using a mix of these methods gives a fuller picture—surveys show general trends,
interviews provide deeper understanding, and content analysis reveals real-life examples.
Ethical Considerations
Get permission from both teenagers and their parents before they participate.
Keep all information private and anonymous.
Let participants leave the study at any time without any consequences.
Scientific Method in Sociology
Make sure the questions and process are appropriate for their age and do not cause harm.
Literature Review: What Research Says
Several studies show that social media is a big part of teenage life and has a strong effect on how they
develop their identities:
Identity Exploration: Social media gives teens a space to try out different aspects of their personalities,
share their interests, and connect with others who have similar experiences. They can experiment with
how they present themselves by choosing what to post and how to interact online.
Social Comparison: Teens often compare themselves to others on social media, especially when they
see idealized images or lifestyles. This can sometimes make them feel inadequate or left out, leading to
lower self-esteem or anxiety.
Peer Feedback: The likes, comments, and messages teens receive can shape how they feel about
themselves. Positive feedback can boost confidence, while negative feedback or cyberbullying can
harm mental health.
Risks and Challenges: Too much time on social media or negative experiences online can lead to
Scientific Method in Sociology
problems like social anxiety, pressure to fit in, or even a fragmented sense of self.
Gaps in Research: While we know social media affects identity, more research is needed on how
different types of social media use (like posting vs. just scrolling) impact teens, and how these effects
might differ by age, gender, or culture.
Summary of Key Findings
Social media is a powerful tool for self-expression and social connection among adolescents.
It offers both opportunities (like exploring new interests and finding support) and challenges (like
increased social pressure and risk of negative self-comparison).
The way teens use social media can deeply influence how they see themselves and relate to others.
Implications for Understanding Adolescent Identity
Understanding how social media shapes adolescent identity can help parents, teachers, and
policymakers support teens in healthy ways. For example:
Scientific Method in Sociology
Encouraging positive online interactions and digital literacy can help teens use social media in ways
that build confidence and resilience.
Recognizing the risks can help adults spot warning signs of anxiety or low self-esteem and provide
support when needed.
Strengths and Limitations of This Study
Strengths:
Using different research methods gives a more complete understanding.
Focusing on ethical standards protects young participants.
Limitations:
Self-reported data can be biased—teens might not always tell the truth.
Scientific Method in Sociology
The study only looks at a specific group, so results may not apply to all teens.
It is hard to see long-term effects from a short-term study.
Future Research:
Studies that follow teens over several years to see long-term effects.
Research comparing teens from different backgrounds or countries.
Exploring ways to teach digital literacy and healthy social media habits.
References
• Kumar, P., & Shukla, J. (2024). Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Identity Formation.
International Journal of Current Science.
• Muhtar, M., & Telussa, S. I. (2024). The Influence of Social Media on Adolescents’ Identity
Construction: A Critical Analysis. International Journal of Society Reviews.
Scientific Method in Sociology
• Zorzikj, A. (2024). To What Extent Does the Influence of Social Media Platforms Shape and Refine
the Identity Formation Process in Adolescents Aged 14 to 18 Year
Word count: 950 words.
