THE ROLE OF PERSONALITY IN SHAPING DIGITAL SELF-PRESENTATION: EVIDENCE FROM YOUTH SELFIE PATTERNS

Abstract

Selfie-taking has emerged as a pervasive cultural practice among youth, facilitated by the widespread availability of smartphones. This study examines the relationship between selfie-taking behavior and personality traits, focusing on extraversion, openness, agreeableness, and narcissism, while also comparing differences between adolescents and young adults. A quantitative, descriptive survey design was employed, utilizing the Selfie Behavior Scale (SBS), the Big Five Inventory (BFI), and a socio-demographic questionnaire. The sample comprised 90 students (50 males, 40 females). Correlation analysis and independent samples t-tests were conducted to explore associations between variables. Results indicated a positive relationship between selfie-taking behavior and narcissistic traits (p = 0.090), while no significant association was observed between attention-seeking and extraversion. Comparisons across age groups revealed differences in selfie behavior and personality traits, though the variations were not statistically significant (p = 0.754 and 0.394). The findings suggest that personality dimensions influence selfie-taking practices and that age-related factors contribute to variations in self-presentation behaviors. These insights underscore the interplay between digital behavior and individual personality traits among youth.