INDIVIDUALITY IN THE DIGITAL AGE: HOW SOCIAL NETWORKS INFLUENCE SELF-IDENTIFICATION AND SOCIAL BEHAVIOR OF PERSONALITY

Abstract

The article analyzes individuality in the digital age, namely, how social networks affect self-identification and social behavior of an individual. The use of social networks can distort people's individuality, lead to dependence on social networks and influence their social behavior. Understanding these issues can help people maintain their individuality and develop healthy social connections in real life. Social networks are an integral part of the modern world. They can have both positive and negative effects on our selfidentity and social behavior. The negative consequences of social media addiction can be very serious. First, they can lead to a loss of individuality. People can lose the ability to distinguish themselves from others when they become part of a large and uncertain online community. This can lead to the fact that people stop developing their own interests and aspirations, and begin to act according to the expectations imposed on them by the social network. Additionally, social media addiction can lead to isolation from the real world, low self-esteem, depression, and other mental health issues. Social networks, on the one hand, can contribute to the formation of positive self-identification and social behavior. But on the other hand, excessive use of social networks can lead to dependence on them and loss of individuality. Social networks can also be a useful tool for maintaining and strengthening interpersonal relationships. People can meet new people and keep in touch with old friends and colleagues, regardless of geographical distance. In addition, social networks can be a useful tool for organizing actions and events that promote the development of communities and support social movements.