Analysing the Effects of Instagram ‘Reels’ on Identity Construction of Pune’s Youth

Abstract

The rise of Instagram as a well-liked social media platform has revolutionised how people create and express their social media identities. The emphasis on visual content, follower count, and content curation on Instagram has changed how people display themselves online. By examining how users interact with the site and the ways in which Instagram changes their self-presentation, this study attempts to investigate the influence of Instagram on social media identity. The research methodology uses survey data as well as content analysis of Instagram profiles, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. According to the findings, Instagram has a big influence on how people build their social media identities because users utilise self-presentation strategies like filtering, cropping, and editing to display a polished image to their followers. Users' content creation and interactions with their followers are also influenced by Instagram's algorithms and emphasis on popularity and engagement. The study comes to the conclusion that Instagram has changed how people express their social media identities, with users strategically positioning themselves to build appealing online personas. The influence of the platform on identity creation and self-expression emphasises the need for additional study on how social media affects the establishment of both individual and group identities.