THE INFLUENCE OF INSTAGRAM ON THE IDENTITY DEVELOPMENT OF ADOLESCENT MASCULINITY

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the influence of Instagram on the development of masculine identity in adolescents, considering the psychological impacts resulting from the excessive use of social media, such as low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. Adolescence is a critical period for identity formation, in which sociocultural gender patterns play a significant role. In this sense, Instagram, by reinforcing ideals of masculinity based on physical and social attributes, can intensify comparison processes and feelings of inadequacy. Methodologically, this is a bibliographic research, with a qualitative and exploratory approach, based on classic authors such as Erikson (1968) and Connell (1995), as well as contemporary studies on social networks and mental health. Through critical analysis of the literature, it is expected to understand how exposure to masculinity patterns conveyed by Instagram interferes with the psychological development of adolescents, contributing to academic discussion and the development of intervention strategies that favor a healthier and more plural identity construction.