The Digital Self and Online Self-Presentation in Cyberspace

Adolescent Online Activity: According to Santrock (2014), the amount of time adolescents spend online can result in both positive and negative outcomes.
Philippine Smartphone Market Growth: According to a report by the market research company International Data Corporation (IDC), as cited by Mednilla (2016), the Philippines is the fastest-growing market for smartphones in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Market Data and Estimates: - During the first quarter of 2016, approximately $3.5 \times 10^{6}$ (3.5 million) smartphones were shipped to the country. - Currently, approximately $30\%$ of all Filipinos are smartphone users.

Definition of the Digital Self: The digital self is defined as our "extended self" within a digital world.
The Digital Persona: In cyberspace and social media, we create a different persona for the purposes of online interaction and communication.
Components of the Digital Self: The digital self is comprised of various elements, including: - The physical devices we possess. - The specific media that we consume. - The people we choose to follow. - How we portray ourselves in the online sphere.
Role-Playing Game (RPG) Metaphor: The digital self is likened to an RPG where an individual creates an avatar. These characters are used as an expression of: - Who you are as an individual. - What you want others to perceive about you. - How you want to portray yourself to the community.

Social Media Defined: Social media refers to computer-based technology that facilitates the sharing of ideas, thoughts, and information through virtual networks and communities.
Online Disembodiment: This concept suggests that when online, people are less likely to reveal their true selves.
Online Disinhibition: This term refers to the lowering of social restriction and inhibition within an online environment.
Binary Categorization of Inhibition: - Benign Inhibition: This occurs when an individual uses an online persona to express their full potential. It represents an attempt to understand and explore oneself and work through personal problems. - Toxic Inhibition: This involves using a persona to engage in toxic behaviors or activities online. Examples of toxic disinhibition include: - Using rude language. - Issuing threats. - Visiting online spaces dedicated to pornography, crime, and violence.

1. Self-promotion: This strategy is characterized by an individual wanting to be perceived as a more capable, smart, and skilled person than others.
2. Ingration: This occurs when individuals perform specific actions to gain the attention of others or to ensure they are liked by others.
3. Exemplification: This is the act of portraying oneself as having moral worthiness. It is a self-presentation strategy where individuals project an image of integrity.
4. Intimidation: This strategy involves presenting oneself as scary or intimidating to others.
5. Supplication: This is an act of expressing oneself by only sharing misfortunes or life misery. The goal is to depict oneself as weak, needy, or dependent on others. In some cases, this is used purposely to gain sympathy from the audience.

1. Professionalism and Embarrassment: Do not post or send anything that you would be embarrassed for certain others (such as employers, family, or mentors) to see.
2. Share with Caution: Be careful about the tendency toward over-sharing personal information.
3. Online Associations: Do not hang out with the "wrong crowd" online.
4. Offline Associations: Do not hang out with the "wrong crowd" offline.
5. Emotional Awareness: Consider your emotional state before virtually posting or responding to anything.
6. Social Awareness: Consider the specific reaction individuals are expecting when they engage in toxic disinhibition.