American University of Technology celebrates the research achievement of two undergraduate students whose work, developed through a Research Methodology course, has been published in the Journal of Psychiatry and Psychological Sciences.
Jana Serhan and Miryam Zgheib, undergraduate students at the American University of Technology (AUT), have reached an important academic milestone with the publication of their research article, “The Influence of Social Media on Mental Health and Eating Habits in Teenage Girls Population Aged 15–20 Years Old,” in Volume 2, Issue 1 of the Journal of Psychiatry and Psychological Sciences, published in June 2026. The article was co-authored by Nay Honain and George Rammouz of AUT.
The study examines the relationship between social media use, mental health, body image, and eating behaviors among adolescent girls in Lebanon. Using an anonymous survey of 40 female participants alongside a review of relevant literature, the research explores concerns surrounding body image, online self-presentation, appearance-related pressure, and eating behaviors influenced by online trends. The authors emphasize that the findings do not establish a direct causal relationship between social media use and these outcomes.
Beyond the subject of the research, the publication represents a significant achievement for Serhan and Zgheib because it demonstrates the application of research skills developed at the undergraduate level. The study originated within AUT’s Research Methodology curriculum, where students learn to formulate research questions, engage with academic literature, select appropriate research methods, collect and analyze data, and communicate findings effectively.
Taking a research project from the classroom to publication provides students with experience that extends well beyond a course requirement. The process requires critical thinking, evidence-based decision-making, problem-solving, methodological awareness, collaboration, and the ability to communicate research responsibly skills that are valuable across both academic and professional environments.
The research also demonstrates the value of connecting undergraduate learning with issues affecting local communities. By examining social media, mental health, and eating behaviors among adolescent girls in Lebanon, the students contributed to research addressing an important contemporary issue and a population identified by the authors as underrepresented in existing literature.
At AUT, opportunities such as this reflect the university’s commitment to preparing students not only for graduation, but for the academic and professional opportunities that follow. Through research-based and experiential learning, students are encouraged to apply what they learn, investigate real-world questions, work with evidence, and produce work that meets academic and professional standards.
For Serhan and Zgheib, having their research published provides a lasting record of their ability to undertake and communicate original research and represents a valuable addition to their academic and professional portfolios. It also offers an early opportunity to contribute to their field and build confidence as emerging researchers.
Their achievement demonstrates that undergraduate research can extend far beyond the classroom. At AUT, learning is an opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills, and experience students need to take their next steps with the confidence to pursue further study, enter their chosen professions, and contribute meaningfully to the communities around them.
You can find the article here
