This study investigates the correlation between 'false-self' - the persona presented to the public that may not accurately reflect one's true identity - and social anxiety among Generation Z Facebook users in Egypt. An integrated methodology approach was executed to explore the connection between Facebook usage, false self-presentation, and social anxiety levels. The study collected data by administering a questionnaire to 420 Facebook users belonging to Egypt's Generation Z demographic. The findings demonstrate a strong positive correlation between higher Facebook usage intensity and false self-presentation. Furthermore, false self-presentation was found to be positively correlated to social anxiety. Significant gender differences in self-congruence on Facebook were revealed, supported by theories related to social norms and gender roles. These findings illustrate the potential influence of social media on gender identity and self-presentation, underscoring the need to take gender differences into account when studying its effects on mental health. Additionally, significant differences in Facebook intensity and attachment between genders were revealed. This study adds to our understanding of the intricate relationship between social media use, self-presentation and mental health outcomes among Generation Z by providing insight into the risks associated with false self-presentation and high Facebook usage intensity.

Authors:
Eslam Abdelraouf, Sultan Qaboos University, Oman

About the Presenter(s)
Eslam Abdelraouf is an assistant professor in the department of Mass communication, Sultan Qaboos University, Oman. He is also an Associate professor in the department of Radio & Tv at Al-Azhar University, Egypt.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/eslamraoufofficial/

Additional website of interest
https://www.facebook.com/eslam.abdelraouf.9/

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