Thesis (MA)- Cyprus International University. Institute of Graduate Studies and Research Communication and Media Studies Department

Includes bibliography (sheets 72-86)

ABSTRACT Technology has greatly impacted in the development of human lives and one of these is the evolving information and communication technologies (ICT). The new ICT provides a platform where individuals can share information and connect with people around the world. Social Networking Sites, birthed from the new ICT has various platforms where people present themselves through pictures and videos. The high usage of Instagram among young people in portraying their daily activities brought about the discussion on digital identity and self-presentation of university students in everyday lives on Instagram. This Thesis aims at understanding the uses of social media by students thereby analysing the frequency, purposes and attitudes towards self-presentation of university students on Instagram. In addition, this study aims to determine the differences or similarities between self-presentation in face-to-face interpersonal communication and the virtual interpersonal communication on Instagram. It also focuses on answering if demographics and Instagram usage frequency are factors that cause a difference on university student's level of self-presentation on Instagram. In this Thesis study, quantitative analysis method was used to analyse the self-presentation of university students in everyday life on Instagram. The data was collected with questionnaire. Questionnaire administered to 375 undergraduate students who are educating in Cyprus International University (CIU). At the end of the data gathering process; the research questions of the thesis were answered by analyzing the 300 questionnaires that can be collected. Research results revealed that Instagram is widely used among university students mainly to watch photos and videos of others and also, Instagram provides platform for university students to express themselves and be more openminded. It was also revealed that demographics has no effect on the level of self-presentation on Instagram or their reasons for self-presentation on Instagram rather the frequent use of Instagram affects the level of self-presentation of students on Instagram.