Developing the social media self-presentation discrepancy scale (SMSDS): psychological and social implications of self-presentation and impression management strategies

This study aimed to develop the Social Media Self-Presentation Discrepancy Scale (SMSDS) to assess individuals’ tendencies to present themselves differently from their real selves in social media environments. The theoretical framework of the study was grounded in Goffman’s theory of self-presentation, Higgins’ self-discrepancy theory, and Leary’s impression management model. Through exploratory (n = 243) and confirmatory (n = 409) factor analyses, the scale’s structural integrity was established, revealing a three-factor structure comprising Reality Distortion and Exaggeration, Idealized Self-Presentation, and Strategic Impression Management. The scale demonstrated high internal consistency, and its construct validity and measurement invariance were supported through various statistical analyses. The SMSDS offers a functional assessment tool for evaluating psychological aspects of social media use, identifying risky digital behaviors among young users, and designing intervention programs targeting digital self-presentation. The findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the multidimensional nature of self-presentation strategies on social media at both theoretical and applied levels.