ScholarWorks@숙명여자대학교

초록

This study aimed to explore the factors associated with adolescents’ empty self phenomenon. This study conducted an integrative analysis of determinants of empty self formation, incorporating both environmental and media-related factors. Specifically, using a sample of middle- and high-school students, we examined how life satisfaction and perceived economic status, along with media-use attitudes, social media platform use, and vulnerability to fake news, influence adolescents’ empty self formation. To this end, a survey was administered to 300 adolescents. The results showed that, among girls, a stronger empty self was associated with lower life satisfaction, more unconscious and automatic app use, and greater vulnerability to fake news. Among boys, a stronger empty self was associated with lower life satisfaction, more unconscious and automatic app use, heavier social media platform use, and greater vulnerability to fake news. Although the predictors and directions of associations were largely similar for girls and boys, social media platform use emerged as a significant factor only among boys, suggesting that media use is more closely linked to boys’ empty-self formation. Finally, the study discusses the theoretical extension of the empty self concept and the theoretical and policy implications of the findings from a media education perspective.

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