The Relative Contribution of Virtual Self-Image Via Social Media to Personality Authenticity and its Relationship Among a Sample of Students at Kasdi Merbah University of Ouargla

Abstract

The present study aimed to examine the relationship between virtual self-image and personality authenticity among a sample of students at Kasdi Merbah University of Ouargla. It also sought to determine the extent to which personality authenticity could be predicted through the dimensions of virtual self-image. The study was conducted on a sample of 214 male and female students who use social networking sites, selected from different faculties of Kasdi Merbah University of Ouargla. The study adopted the descriptive correlational method and employed the Virtual Self-Image Scale developed by Shaimaa Salman (2023) and the Personality Authenticity Scale developed by Salam Hadi and Raqia (2024). The findings revealed a high level of personality authenticity among the participants. They also indicated a statistically significant correlation between virtual self-image and personality authenticity. Furthermore, personality authenticity could be predicted through the dimensions of virtual self-image (open self, conservative self, and hidden self).