<![CDATA[The rapid development of digital technology has transformed the way adolescents interact, obtain information, and express themselves through social media. On the one hand, intensive social media use can provide various benefits; on the other hand, it may also have both positive and negative effects on adolescents' emotional well-being. This qualitative study aimed to explore adolescents' emotional experiences in using digital devices and social media, as well as their relationship with psychological well-being. The research employed a phenomenological approach, with data collected through semi-structured interviews involving five participants aged 16–18 years. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis, including data reduction, coding, category development, and the identification of major themes. The analysis revealed four primary themes: social media as a source of entertainment and emotional support, the emergence of social comparison that affects self-esteem, dependence on social validation through the number of likes and comments, and self-regulation efforts in managing social media use. The findings indicate that social media has a complex relationship with adolescents' psychological well-being. Positive effects emerge when social media is used as a means of communication and obtaining social support, whereas negative effects arise when excessive use leads to anxiety, overthinking, and decreased self-satisfaction due to social comparison. ]]>
