Does Social Media Encourage Narcissism?

Do you lead a double life? There’s your life as presented on social media and then your actual life. Social networking websites keep people connected with family, friends, co-workers, and acquaintances. But research suggests that online profiles can also feed our narcissistic tendencies and highlights a disconnect between one's real-world personality and the neatly curated online version. A user who constantly updates their status, obsessively uploads photos, or excessively posts or comments on others' walls may be exhibiting narcissistic tendencies and battling issues of low self-esteem. It’s not certain whether social media itself causes increases in narcissism, if narcissists merely seek out social media, or if both create a vicious cycle. Some people seek popularity through the photos or status updates they post. Both adults and teens attempt to boost their self-esteem and narcissism based on how many 'Likes' they get on Facebook. Apparently the desire to be 'Liked' on Facebook is a universal phenomenon. We all want to feel worthy of love and belonging. A 2013 study from the Univ of Michigan found that social media reflects and amplifies our culture’s growing levels of narcissism. The study shows that narcissistic college students and their adult counterparts use social media in different ways to boost their egos and control others' perceptions of them. What are your thoughts? Life Coach Jenn A. Nocera weighs in on the topic. After the show, go to After Hours at Jersey Coastal Live for more info.