Abstract

This study investigates how social media influences the psychological well-being of Division III college athletes. This research focuses mainly on motivation, recognition, distraction, emotional strain, and upward social comparison. Although prior research has examined social medias effects on college athletes this research spotlights Division III athletes who remain understudied despite balancing significant academic and athletic demands with fewer institutional resources. Using primarily a quantitative survey-based design with qualitative open-ended responses, this study collected anonymous responses from 59 student-athletes at the College of Wooster. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, frequency analyses, and qualitative thematic coding. Findings from the research helped show that social media has a dual impact on athletes’ psychological experiences. Participants described different positive effects such as motivation, encouragement, recognition and digital community support. However, there was also negative reports such as distraction, comparison pressure, and emotional strain. Overall, upward social comparison levels were relatively low to moderate, and no statistically significant gender differences were found. However, distraction emerged as one of the most common negative effects. The results from the research suggest that social media functions as a potential stressor and a psychological benefit in the lives of Division III athletes. The main purpose of this study is to help contribute research on athlete mental health by highlighting the complex role of the new digital world which shapes experiences of an understudied athletic population.

Advisor

Allgayer, Sasha

Department

Global Media and Digital Studies

Disciplines

Arts and Humanities | Social and Behavioral Sciences

Publication Date

2026

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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