Investigation of the impact of instagram access restriction on individuals' psychological well-being, social and cultural perceptions, and adaptation strategies

Abstract

This study comprehensively examines the psychological impacts of the Instagram access ban implemented in Turkey between August 2, 2024, and August 10, 2024, how these impacts are reflected in social consequences and cultural perceptions, and also assesses the adaptation strategies that individuals develop in response to the ban. Data were collected from 80 participants residing in Erzurum through online surveys and analyzed using MAXQDA 24 software. The findings suggest that the access ban had various psychological effects, with some participants experiencing changes in their social relationships and difficulties in accessing information. The impacts on social bonds and solidarity varied among participants, with some cases showing intensified social interactions. In terms of cultural perceptions, changes were observed in individuals' views on freedom and expression rights. The study provides important insights into how social media access bans can influence individual perceptions and social structures, suggesting that these findings could contribute to shaping social media policies. © 2025 by author(s).