The Influence of Personality Traits on Social Media Use and Online Self-Presentation Among University Students: A Study of Extraversion and Neuroticism

Abstract

This study explores the impact of personality traits, specifically extraversion and neuroticism, on social media use and online self-presentation among university students in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistan. Using a cross sectional method, the research examines the frequency of social media use, the motivations behind social media engagement, and the ways students present themselves online. The results indicate that extraverted students tend to use social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok more frequently and engage in self-promotion, showcasing their social lives and achievements. In contrast, neurotic students use social media as a means of emotional expression, engaging in self-disclosure to seek emotional support and validation. The study also identifies significant differences in online self-presentation behaviors between students from private and government universities, with private university students engaging more in self-promotion. The findings underscore the importance of personality traits in shaping social media behaviors and suggest the need for mindful social media engagement strategies, particularly for neurotic individuals who may experience emotional distress through online interactions.