THE DIGITAL "SELF" PHENOMENON OF STUDENT YOUTH AND ITS TRANSFORMATION IN THE HIGHER EDUCATION ENVIRONMENT

This thesis analyzes the phenomenon of the digital “self” among student youth and its transformation within the higher education environment. The study examines the philosophical and socio-cultural foundations of digital identity formation, the influence of social media platforms on students’ self-perception, and the role of virtual communication in shaping personal identity. Particular attention is given to the transformation of the traditional self into a fragmented and dynamic digital identity. The research also explores both positive and negative implications of digitalization in higher education, emphasizing the necessity of developing media literacy, critical thinking, and digital culture among students. The findings highlight that the digital “self” has become an integral part of modern student identity in the context of global digital transformation.