The Relationship Between Self-Concept and Online Self-Presentation in Adults

Self-presentation is the process by which we portray ourselves to others to make a desired impression. Traditionally, self-presentation has been studied in face-to-face interaction. However, social media platforms have shifted how people exchange information. For example, personal content can be edited before posting online, giving the individual more control over their presentation. With this shift and the widely adapted use of social media, it is desirable to study self-presentation in online settings. The aim of this study was to broaden the understanding of self-concept as a predictor of online self-presentation by expanding upon previous research with adolescents by instead using a young adult sample. Two hundred thirty participants aged between 18 and 35 years completed the Self-Concept Clarity Scale and the Presentation of Online Self Scale (POSS). Factor analysis of the POSS revealed that with a young adult sample, the factor labeled the "Ideal Self" was distributed into the other three factors: "Multiple Selves," "Consistent Self," and "Online Presentation Preference." In addition, a significant positive correlation was found between age and self-concept. However, when controlling for age, self-concept was the best predictor of online self-presentation. Individuals with a lower self-concept were more likely to present discrepancies between their offline and online self. This study supports previous research findings that self-concept plays an important role in online self-presentation. Finally, it presents the idea that the concept of an "ideal self" adjusts into young adulthood.