06/12/2025
In-depth interviews conducted with 6 young people in Turkiye aged 17–30 revealed that the youth predominantly use Instagram, Twitter (X), and TikTok applications, respectively. Furthermore, Artificial Intelligence (AI) usage (most frequently ChatGBI) is as intense as Instagram. AI is used for assisting with work/school life, as well as for consultation/psychological support in personal life.
The research determined that social media is heavily used for online socialization, keeping up with peers, and entertainment.
Analysis indicated that the elements generating digital anxiety among participants are predominantly news-related stress. Additionally, information pollution is the second factor contributing to digital anxiety. Following this, participants complained about constantly seeing similar information and content on their social media accounts or internet interface feeds, encountering the same ideas, and not coming across different opinions.
It was observed that the ideal beauty and lifestyle standards imposed by social media lead to young people feeling inadequate and experiencing pressure through comparison. At the same time, spending hours on digital platforms without realizing it and the resulting feeling of regret for lost time is a significant source of stress.
Our research, conducted within the scope of the Youth-Centered Digital Society Project, aims to amplify the voices of young people and support digital well-being.
