Name and Surname:
Merve KOYUNCU
Afiliation:
Toros University, School of Health Services, Department of Child Care and Youth Services (Turkey)
Email:
Research Abstract:
The goal of Merve Koyuncu’s research visit is to conduct a comparative analysis of how digital media and AI-supported online platforms shape mental health content for youth in Türkiye and Serbia, and to assess the impact of this content on the attitudes and mental well-being of adolescents and young people (aged 15–24). By carrying out discourse analysis of social networks (YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook), as well as online surveys with 400 youth and semi-structured interviews with 20 participants, the research explores digital well-being, psychological stress, social norms, and support strategies. Special focus is placed on gender and cultural aspects, and on the application of AI tools for sentiment and pattern analysis. Additional insights are provided through interviews with clinical psychologists and digital media experts.
Short Biography:
Merve Koyuncu is a university lecturer and researcher with over nine years of experience at Toros University. Her fields of expertise include child and youth development, inclusive and special education, youth well-being, and the psychosocial effects of digitalization. She holds undergraduate degrees in preschool education and business administration, and a thesis-based master’s from Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University focusing on alternative approaches in early education. Merve actively participates in international and national research projects (COST Actions YouthDMH and ORBIT) and is also the author of several patents and innovations in health, technology, and daily living. Her publications and presentations at local and international conferences address topics such as digital mental health, social integration, inclusive education, family support, and innovative teaching methods. She advocates for interdisciplinary and practice-oriented solutions for improving the well-being of children and youth, and is committed to fostering international collaboration.