Investigating the selfitis behaviors and self-esteem of nursing and medical technology students

ABSTRACT

Introduction

In this study, we aimed to investigate the selfitis behaviors and self-esteem of nursing and medical technology students.

Material and Methods

This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with the participation of 612 students studying in the departments of nursing and medical technology at a university in eastern Turkey. The non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal Wallis test were carried out.

Results

The participants were between the ages of 18 and 24. Most of the participants in both department groups were women. More than 90% of the participants in both groups were using social media. It was determined that they used WhatsApp, Instagram, and Twitter most, and they took selfies for sharing these selfies with their friends on social media. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between the selfitis behaviors of the participants and their self-esteem levels.

Conclusion

The nursing and medical technology students who participated in this study had moderate levels of selfitis behaviors and self-esteem, and there was a negative relationship between these two variables. To facilitate the socializing of students in real life, we recommend that their family and close circle support be increased. We recommend raising awareness on print and visual media regarding problematic social media usage behaviors.

HIGHLIGHTS

• In our study, the selfitis behaviors and self-esteem of the participants were on moderate levels, and a negative significant relationship was found between these two variables.

• It was determined that they used WhatsApp, Instagram, and Twitter most, and they took selfies for sharing these selfies with their friends on social media.

• In rural areas; Using social media and taking selfies can reduce people’s quality of life. Overuse can cause mental fatigue, inability to focus, distraction, poor sleep quality and work accidents. Limited few studies; He focused on the potential negative effects of taking selfies and using social media in rural areas to protect and promote health.

KEYWORDS:

• Selfitis
• self-esteem
• selfie-taking behaviors

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

Data will be made available on request.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Funding

This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.