The Psychological Impacts of Social Media:
Culture, Identity, and Mental Health
Program Description:
Explore the Forces Shaping Our Digital Lives
Social media is everywhere. It shapes how we connect, think, and make decisions. But have you ever wondered how it’s truly affecting your emotions, your identity, and even your mental health? In The Psychological Impacts of Social Media: Culture, Identity, and Mental Health, you’ll embark on a six-week journey to explore the complex psychological forces behind our digital interactions.
This online, asynchronous course combines discussion forums, readings, and a collaborative project where students apply insights from class to a mock social media account. Rather than teaching production mechanics, the course emphasizes critical analysis of how influence, identity, and digital culture shape our online experiences.
What You'll Learn:
- How Social Media Shapes Emotions and Identity
Discover how our digital lives influence our feelings, decisions, and sense of self. Learn to recognize the emotional and psychological impact social media can have, and how to manage it in a healthy way. - The Rise of Influencer Culture
Explore the phenomenon of influencer culture and its pervasive effects on society. From beauty standards to consumer trends, uncover how influencers shape everything from self-image to the public discourse. - Social Media, Mental Health, and Well-Being
Examine the delicate balance between social media and mental health. Investigate both the positive aspects of digital connection and the risks, like anxiety and social comparison, that can arise from constant online engagement. - Critical Thinking About Digital Safety
Learn essential skills for staying safe in the digital world. This module empowers you with the tools to protect your privacy, recognize digital manipulation, and engage in online spaces thoughtfully.
Ready to Dive In?
This course offers a unique opportunity to develop a critical, research-based understanding of social media’s psychological and cultural effects. Equip yourself with the knowledge to engage with social media in a way that fosters emotional well-being, digital safety, and personal growth.
Dates: July 6 - August 14, 2026
Location: Asynchronous Online
Price: $1,995 - Application fee waived until January 1, 2026, a $75 savings
For more information, questions or to register: Email tcacademy@tc.columbia.edu
Instructor
Jamie L. Krenn is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Human Development. Krenn’s research interests include cognitive media processing, creative preschool and elementary-school curriculum preparation, and culinary cognition. Krenn was an educational media consultant for media entities such as Disney, Nickelodeon, YouTube Originals, PBSKids, and Pinkfong. Krenn is also a contributor to Psychology Today. She looks to share her experience and training with others in food, parenting, psychology, production, and product development.
Learning Objectives
Participants will:
- Analyze how social media influences emotions, decision-making, and personal identity, and develop strategies for managing its psychological impact.
- Evaluate the role of influencer culture in shaping beauty standards, consumer behavior, and public opinion.
- Examine the relationship between social media use and mental health, identifying both benefits and potential risks such as anxiety and social comparison.
- Apply critical thinking skills to navigate digital spaces safely, protect personal information, and recognize manipulation or misinformation online.
Who Should Attend
TC Pre-College courses are open to students ages 14-17. All courses are conducted in English and learners should have sufficient fluency to participate.
This pre-college program is ideal for high school students who are active on social media and interested in understanding how digital platforms influence emotions, identity, and mental health. It's especially suited for students who want to think critically about the digital world, learn how to engage online in a healthy and informed way, and explore the broader social impact of influencer culture and online trends. Whether you're considering a future in psychology, media studies, communications, or just want to better navigate your own digital life, this program will give you the tools to become a more mindful, informed, and empowered digital citizen.
Upon Completion
Participants who successfully complete this program will earn a verified Certificate of Participation and an official Digital Badge—valuable credentials that can be shared on LinkedIn or digital portfolios. View our sample program badge and certificate below.
