Abstract
The mental health of Deaf individuals, particularly in relation to social media engagement, is an understudied area amid growing global concerns about anxiety disorders. Deaf individuals face unique challenges, including communication barriers, social isolation, and stigma, all of which can heighten anxiety levels. Although social media offers valuable opportunities for connection and self-expression, it may also amplify stress and feelings of inadequacy when accessibility barriers persist. This mixed-methods study examined anxiety among Deaf college students and explored the cultural validity of two widely used anxiety measures—the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Quantitative data were collected through standardized anxiety surveys, and qualitative interviews explored students’ lived experiences with social media. Findings inform the development of culturally sensitive mental health assessments and highlight the need for more accessible and inclusive digital environments for Deaf users
Publication Date
12-2025
Document Type
Master's Project
Student Type
Graduate
Degree Name
Health and Well-being Management (MS)
Department, Program, or Center
Wegmans School of Health and Nutrition
College
College of Health Sciences and Technology
Advisor
Barbara Lohse
Recommended Citation
Zheng, Gigi, "EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIAL MEDIA AND ANXIETY IN DEAF COMMUNITY STUDENTS: A MIXED-METHODS APPROACH." (2025). Thesis. Rochester Institute of Technology. Accessed from
https://repository.rit.edu/theses/12366
Campus
RIT – Main Campus
