A Qualitative Investigation of Self-Presentation Among Gifted Adolescents on Social Media

Abstract

Using a reflective, phenomenological design, the current study explored how gifted adolescents presented themselves on social media. We collected data through semi-structured interviews with 18 gifted adolescents and used research diaries and thematic document analysis of participants’ social media accounts (n = 10) and their profile statements (n = 12). Results show that gifted adolescents prefer to remain anonymous, strive to create a positive self-image, and perceive social media as a “frontstage.” Their need for social approval shapes their sharing preferences. They primarily use filters in their posts to look more beautiful and aesthetically pleasing, engage in social surveillance out of curiosity, and leave digital footprints on social media. We discussed our findings in terms of the anonymity/visibility paradox. Contradictions between the adolescents’ stated practices, such as claiming anonymity, limited sharing, and their observed behaviors, such as extensive shared personal information in profiles, are worth further and deeper investigations.