Analysis of Digital Self-Presentation Practices and Profiles of Spanish Adolescents on Instagram and TikTok

Abstract

This study analyses self-presentation practices and profiles among Spanish teenagers on Instagram and TikTok. Both of these online spaces prioritise and promote visual publications, are structured to allow feedback on self-presentation, and offer the user filters both to control self-image and to target specific audiences. Three research questions guided the methodological process for the twofold analysis of self-presentation practices on social networks: an exploratory factor analysis to identify latent factors among these practices; and a descriptive analysis of the profiles identified by gender and age. Results indicate that adolescents’ self-presentation practices were related to three different factors: social validation; authenticity; and image control. One of the most outstanding results is that self-presentation practices could be less guided by social feedback, since the number of followers or likes was irrelevant for most adolescents, and that adolescents increasingly tend to be guided by innovative predispositions of truthfulness. In turn, conclusions suggest that teens need to be equipped with suitable self-representation practices for safe and sustainable identity narratives on social networks, since the global COVID-19 pandemic has exponentially increased both the usage and the time spent on social networking sites, enlarging the availability of spaces for adolescents to express themselves and build their identities through different self-representation practices.

The Influence of Social Media Platforms on Self-Identity In the New Media Environment: The Case of TikTok and Instagram

“…"Self-presentation," as defined by Hernandez-Serrano et al [2], refers to measures taken to ensure one's own safety. People are able to more fully express themselves and take pride in their individuality when they use new media to promote their own profiles.…”

Educational behaviour and student agency in personalised digital learning

“…This area of professional tasks includes ethical issues and a critical attitude to broadcasting human and professional values with digital language and tools. Hernández-Serrano et al advice that young people should be provided with "self-representation practices for safe and sustainable identity narratives on social networks" [25].…”

University students' self-presentation on Tiktok in the context of group communication

“…It allows them to create, edit, and share short videos with various filters and soundtracks, including the latest music trends and other genres. (Hernández-Serrano et al, 2022). This consideration prompted the researchers to analyse the creativity of university students on the TikTok application in self-presentation, which may inspire others to imitate or surpass it through challenges.…”