Introduction

Generation Z is unlike any other generation. We are the first to grow up with advanced technology integrated into our daily lives. Social media platforms provide us with instant access to other people's lives and global events at the touch of a button. While smartphones and technology offer valuable benefits, they have also had a negative impact on Generation Z.

Social media encourages endless scrolling, with timelines that seem to never run out. It's incredibly easy to lose hours mindlessly scrolling through photos that often lack meaning. We often turn to these images as a way to avoid uncomfortable conversations or awkward silences. Instead of embracing quiet moments during interactions, we instinctively reach for our phones.

In addition, social media has influenced our mental health and how we perceive ourselves. Constantly browsing social platforms and comparing ourselves to others has contributed to a significant decline in young adults' mental well-being.

One aspect that has remained consistent across generations is the role of music. However, with modern technology, music is now more accessible than ever. Instead of relying on record players or radios, we can simply pull out our phones and listen whenever we choose. While genres and styles may differ, music continues to serve as a powerful tool for comfort and emotional support. Studies have shown that music has a positive effect on mental health and overall well-being.

Review of Literature

I.      Social Media’s Impact

Constantly checking social media is a growing issue that remains underexplored. What impact does this have on children who are developing and comparing themselves to others? With the prevalence of social media, it has become much easier to judge and compare ourselves to others (Vidal et al., 2020). While earlier generations experienced similar comparisons through television shows and movies, today it’s just a click away. Platforms like Instagram allow users to post pictures of their lives, often showcasing vacations and lavish lifestyles. This has a concerning and detrimental effect on young minds. Rather than simply growing up, this generation is constantly striving to look like the people they see on their screens.

A recent study by the Australian Research Council explored the impact of social media on adolescents’ health. The study aimed to identify the correlation between social media use and various factors such as body satisfaction, eating behaviors, depressive symptoms, and social anxiety. Adolescents were asked to complete a series of online questionnaires that measured these factors. The results indicated that social media use was linked to lower body satisfaction and higher levels of eating pathology. The study concluded that there is a clear connection between social media use and negative mental health outcomes in adolescents. As stated in the study, “As preadolescents enter the adolescent period, social media use and mental health concerns often increase.” This highlights the unhealthy effects of social media on young minds (Fardouly et al., 2020).

Another study examined the effects of social media on adolescents’ mental health, categorizing these effects into three groups: the good (positive impacts on well-being), the bad (potential risks from overuse), and the ugly (severe negative impacts on mental health). Social media can provide benefits, such as helping individuals build social skills, strengthen peer relationships, and create support networks. Many participants reported using social media as a distraction from the stressors in their lives. Despite these benefits, the study also identified significant risks. In the “bad” category, the study found negative associations with social media, including low self-esteem, fear of missing out, and disrupted sleep patterns. The evidence indicated a clear link between disrupted sleep and mental health issues tied to social media use. Finally, the “ugly” category discussed more severe negative effects, such as bullying, self-harm, and suicidal tendencies. Although none of the participants reported experiencing these issues themselves, many acknowledged knowing others who had. One participant shared, “In the past, that’s also caused deaths of people being targeted on social media, and they end up committing suicide” (O’Reilly, 2020). This study emphasizes the profound impact social media can have on mental health, including the potential for fatal outcomes in extreme cases.

II.    Mental Health 

According to a survey conducted by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 610,000 young adults attempted suicide in 2018 (Suwinyattichaiporn & Turner, 2020). Generation Z faces the highest suicide rates among all age groups. Mental health in this generation is taken more seriously than ever before, which is crucial given the constant exposure to social media. When a young adult, still in the process of growing and developing, consistently compares their life to the curated images of others, it can lead to low self-esteem and a distorted self-image. Stress is another significant factor for this generation. Alarming news stories are released daily, painting the world as a frightening place to live. Reports about deadly viruses, mass shootings, and other distressing events can severely impact mental health.

A recent study by The American Psychological Association examined the mental health of high school adolescents during the pandemic. The researchers distributed a survey to high school students, asking questions about stressors in their lives and mental health indicators, including the impact of online learning. The survey also allowed participants to share personal reflections on how their mental health had changed throughout the pandemic. The results showed that 77.4% of white students, 53.6% of Asian students, 100% of Hispanic/Latino students, and 50% of Black students reported a decline in their mental health. Among those who reported a decline, 70% were enrolled in online learning rather than in-person classes. This study highlights the drastic effect that shifting from in-person to online learning had on students’ mental health. As noted in the article, “The APA reports that nearly 81% of Gen Z teens experience more intense stress due to COVID-19, associated with schooling” (Rao & Rao, 2021).

III.   Positive Effects of Music

One of the most effective ways to take our minds off the troubles happening in the world is through music. A recent study involving 15 young adults struggling with mental health asked participants to engage in a musical activity within a social setting to observe any potential improvements. Over an 8-week period, the participants took part in an art-based course and worked with a tutor on musical strategies. According to the study, one of the tutors was hosting a songwriting workshop, where the participants seemed to genuinely enjoy their time. As they interacted with the tutor and composed verses for their songs, they were upbeat and eager to share their ideas. The participants frequently encouraged one another to sing parts of the song, providing positive feedback throughout the process. With the help of music, these individuals were able to connect, share time together, and uplift one another (Chan & Han, 2022).

Another study explored the actual impact of music on the brain and its functions. It suggests that musical induction of emotions operates through six frameworks: brain stem reflexes, evaluative conditioning, emotional contagion, visual imagery, musical expectancy, and episodic memory. The brain stem processes musical tones, which enables us to perceive and enjoy music. The study explains, “Certain sound qualities are indicative of change, such as sudden or extreme sounds, sounds that change very quickly, or sounds that are the result of strong force or large size. Sounds that meet certain criteria (e.g., fast, loud, noisy, very low- or high-frequencies) will therefore produce an increased activation of the central nervous system” (Juslin & Västfjäll, 2008). Listeners tend to prefer sounds that provide optimal arousal, meaning that certain sounds or pitches can evoke an emotional response in the listener. This arousal can lead to feelings of joy or bliss, which may explain why people turn to music to improve their mood. The brain stem may also generate a relaxation effect when processing specific musical sounds.

Music can also affect mood and mental health through emotional contagion, which refers to the automatic adoption of an emotional state. When listening to music, individuals often unconsciously mimic the emotional expression conveyed by the song. If the music is upbeat and lively, the listener is likely to experience a positive emotional shift. Conversely, if the song is slower and melancholic, the listener may feel a sense of sadness. Furthermore, music can evoke visual imagery in the brain, which can trigger specific emotions such as happiness, sadness, or anger. For example, if someone imagines lying on a beach while listening to an upbeat song, they are likely to experience feelings of lightness and joy. Alternatively, imagining a confrontation while listening to a melancholic track may lead to negative emotions. This illustrates how music not only affects our mood but also shapes the mental scenarios we create in response to it.

Emotions tied to music can also be triggered by episodic memory. This occurs when a song brings to mind a specific memory, evoking the emotions associated with that experience. If the memory is emotionally charged, it may bring feelings of sadness or anger; however, a happy memory may improve one's mood. This study highlights the significant impact music can have on a person's mood, supporting the effectiveness of music therapy and explaining why it has such positive effects on mental well-being.

Methods Section

Method 1

For my first method, I will conduct a standardized interview with 10 volunteers using a purposive sampling technique. I will recruit individuals who belong to Generation Z, defined as anyone born between 1997 and 2012. The participants will be men and women between the ages of 18 and 25. Each volunteer will be interviewed separately, and they will all be asked the same set of questions. These questions will explore their work, communication skills, use of technology and social media, and the personal impact of COVID-19. Interviews will be conducted either via online video conference (Zoom) or in person, depending on the convenience of the interviewee. Each interview will be recorded and transcribed, with recordings being deleted once transcription is complete.

I chose these two methods—Zoom and in-person interviews—based on their convenience for the participants. Each interview will last at least 30 minutes. Before starting, I will ask each volunteer if they feel comfortable answering additional questions about their generation and their perspectives on the current state of the world. If they agree, I will send them a consent form to sign, indicating their participation in the study. After the consent form is reviewed and signed, I will schedule the interview and proceed with the session.

During the interviews, I will carefully observe the participants' reactions to the questions. I will pay attention to whether they seem hesitant, surprised, or intrigued by any questions. Additionally, I will observe their body language, tone of voice, and mannerisms. Conducting the interviews via Zoom allows me to gather accurate, direct responses from each participant, providing reliable insights into how Generation Z views their own generation and the factors that have impacted them.

To analyze the data, I will use data reduction. This method will help simplify the raw data from the interviews into an easily understandable format. I will apply this technique during the transcription process and when summarizing my research. Additionally, I will use conclusion drawing and verification. After completing the study, I will review the data multiple times to ensure accuracy and verify the findings. The benefit of this approach is that it ensures the reliability of the information; however, a potential disadvantage is that as the sole reviewer, I may overlook errors, which could affect the accuracy of the results.

There are also some drawbacks to conducting standardized interviews. Poorly worded questions could make participants feel uncomfortable or disinterested. Therefore, I will avoid asking “why” or “how” questions, which could feel too interrogative. Double-barreled questions—those that ask about multiple things in one sentence—should also be avoided, as they can cause confusion. To prevent this, I will make sure the questions are simple, open-ended, and easy to interpret. This approach will allow participants the time and space to think through their responses and provide thoughtful, comprehensive answers.

Method 2

For my second method, I will use content analysis. This analysis will involve creating a coding sheet to examine various types of music, music videos, and my reviews of these videos. I will be using purposive sampling for this study and will analyze 20 different music videos across various genres, all of which will be accessible on YouTube. In these videos, I will focus on how the type of music is portrayed and its overall impact within the video.

I will gather this data during my personal time over the course of one week. The coding sheet will include the following variables for each music video: the name of the video, the genre of music, the premise of the video, the reactions evoked by the video, and the positive or negative influences it may have on the viewer. To ensure thorough analysis, I will review each video multiple times to accurately assess the content.

Content analysis will help me understand the effects of music on a person's mood and behavior. This method complements the interview data, providing a secondary source of information to support my findings. The coding sheet will allow me to identify and analyze the relationships between the different variables under study.

One significant advantage of using content analysis is that it is unobtrusive. Unlike interviews or surveys, content analysis only requires the researcher to observe existing materials and conduct an analysis, without direct interaction with participants. This approach can be applied to a variety of media sources such as YouTube, TikTok, television shows, and movies. Another advantage is that content analysis is cost-effective, as it typically requires minimal or no financial resources to conduct. Additionally, it allows researchers to identify trends in society based on the content analyzed.

However, a limitation of content analysis is that it can only examine already recorded content. Researchers analyze data that has already been produced, often by others, which can restrict the scope of the study. Furthermore, it may be challenging to find materials that are perfectly aligned with the specific research question. Another drawback is that content analysis is not well-suited for testing causal relationships between variables.

I will analyze the data using data reduction, conclusion drawing, and verification. Data reduction will take place as I break down the information in my coding sheet, simplifying the variables into clear, concise categories. Verification will involve carefully reviewing the data multiple times to ensure accuracy and consistency. While the advantage of this process is that it improves the reliability of my data, a potential disadvantage is that the analysis will be based on my subjective interpretations, with no external review. This could lead to potential mistakes or inaccuracies in my conclusions.

RESULTS

The results from both methods sections, including the transcriptions of the interviews and other detailed data, have been removed for confidentiality reasons and to protect the privacy of the participants. If you would like to learn more about this study, please feel free to reach out to me through my contact page.

Findings

Method 1:

From the interviews, it appears that music, media, and movies have some impact on viewers' mental health, but not to an overwhelming degree. Each participant mentioned that music is impactful in terms of influencing their mood. A quote from one interviewee that reflects the sentiments of many others is: “I think that it just depends on what kind of music you listen to. So, like if you listen to happy music, you’re going to be in a happier mood, but if you listen to sadder music, it’s just going to make you sad.” This suggests that music has the ability to alter someone’s mood depending on the genre and the emotions it evokes.

Regarding social media, all ten participants agreed that social media affects how this generation communicates. They also indicated that it shapes how people perceive themselves and others. This provides insight into how social media may be distorting young people's perceptions of themselves. Half of the participants mentioned that social media had influenced their lives, while the other half claimed it had no effect. However, the consensus that social media impacts communication and perceptions suggests that its effects are broader and more significant than some participants initially acknowledged.

When discussing mental health during the pandemic, the responses were split. Most participants reported that their mental health was either fine or better than ever, while a few described it as being in a horrible state. Similarly, opinions on current mental health varied—some participants felt improved, while others experienced a decline. Seven participants believed the pandemic would have lasting effects on Generation Z’s mental health, whereas three thought the effects would either be minimal or contingent on individual mindsets. This shows that while the pandemic impacted mental health, the extent of its effect depended on personal circumstances.

As for movies and media, the responses were divided. Seven participants indicated that the pandemic did not increase their interest in watching movies, while two reported they began watching more during the pandemic and still do. One participant mentioned they started watching movies during the pandemic but no longer do. Although seven participants didn’t observe others becoming more interested in movies, six reported hearing others express how they missed the cinema during lockdown. Regarding streaming services, eight out of ten participants stated that Netflix was their go-to platform for movies and TV shows, citing its diversity of content and convenience. Half of the participants felt that streaming services provided a better movie experience due to their variety and accessibility, while the other half preferred movie theaters for their superior screen size, movie quality, and sound systems. Most participants (seven out of ten) believed that streaming platforms would eventually replace movie theaters, while the remaining three thought theaters would remain but become more of a “retro” experience.

When it comes to technology, participants reported spending between 3-6 hours a day on their phones on average. Eight participants noted that their lifestyles did not revolve around movies, media, or music, although some mentioned using technology more during the pandemic. One participant said that their life had always been centered around movies and music but that their overall technology use had increased. Another participant stated that using these platforms had a positive effect on their mood and helped them view situations in a different light. The majority of participants reported being involved in other activities such as sports, outdoor hobbies, or socializing with friends during the last two years, indicating a balance between their tech use and offline activities.

Concerning music, all participants agreed that it influences mood, with individuals typically choosing music that mirrors their emotional state. Most participants preferred listening to alternative music, as it was described as upbeat, relaxing, and happy due to its rhythm and meaningful lyrics. Other popular genres included country, R&B, and rap. Six participants reported using music as an escape from certain situations, such as walking into a crowded space to avoid distractions. One participant shared, “Whenever I walk into a big building or a crowded area, I just put in my headphones and walk to where I need to be. That way I don’t get stopped or distracted.” Regarding streaming platforms, seven participants used Spotify, two preferred Apple Music, and one participant downloaded music directly to their device.

Method 2:

From the music videos I watched, I can conclude that each video evoked emotional responses based on the scenarios and situations depicted. For example, videos showcasing devastating situations such as homophobia, cancer, the loss of a loved one, and heartbreak triggered feelings of sadness and fear. On the other hand, more upbeat videos, such as love songs or feel-good tracks, had a positive effect, putting me in a good mood and making me feel happy.

This data demonstrates that music and media can indeed influence someone’s emotional and mental state. It also supports the idea that the type of music played can trigger specific emotions in a person. Upbeat music tends to evoke happiness and excitement, while sadder or more somber music can lead to feelings of sadness or depression. These findings align with the idea that music can be a powerful tool in influencing emotional responses and shaping a person’s mood.

Discussion

After conducting interviews and analyzing separate YouTube videos, I wasn't entirely surprised by the information I uncovered. From the beginning of the study, I predicted that music would have a significant impact on viewers' emotions and moods. The article and study referenced in the literature review also provided supporting evidence for these findings.

The literature review demonstrates that listening to or creating music can improve a person's mood. This was also reflected in the responses of the participants I interviewed. Each of the ten participants reported that happy music made them feel happy, and sad music made them feel sad. I also found this correlation in the content analysis, as each music video seemed to trigger an emotional response.

I enjoyed conducting this study and gained valuable insights from it. I now have a clearer understanding of the effects of music, media, movies, and social media on Generation Z. This knowledge will guide my future decisions when it comes to technology. I plan to be more mindful of my emotional state when listening to certain types of music and more aware of how social media might affect my mental health.

One aspect I would approach differently is the content analysis I chose. Although I felt the data from the music videos supported my hypothesis, I now wish I had focused more on just listening to music rather than analyzing the videos. Some videos may not align with the song's meaning, which could have influenced the results. Additionally, I would have preferred to have a set group of people to interview rather than conducting interviews randomly. I struggled to find participants willing to take the time for an interview, and I think my spontaneous approach might have made it harder to secure interviews. If I had planned ahead and contacted participants earlier, I may have had a better response rate.

Another observation from the interviews was the redundancy of certain questions. Some participants expressed confusion or frustration when asked similar questions later in the interview. A few even pointed out that they had already answered the same question. In hindsight, I realize that I could have diversified the questions to avoid repetition, which might have made the interview process smoother for the participants. Additionally, I could have replaced some of these repeated questions with ones that were more relevant to my study, rather than asking the same thing in different ways.

Overall, I am happy with the results of my study. The interviews provided me with thoughtful insights, and the questions I asked gave me a better understanding of how movies, media, music, and social media influence Generation Z.