CRAFTING THE SELF: Boundaries and Ethical Implications of

Online Identity Crossover

CAMILLE ONG

JENNILYN QUIAMBAO

BERNARD VIRTUDAZO

LEXTER CALIPAS

RANDY CABOTE

JEREMY TALPLACIDO

A Term Paper Submitted to Sir Joseph Dubas in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements

for the Subject of (GE101) Understanding the Self which is Included in the Course of

ASSOCIATE IN COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY

NOVEMBER 2024
 CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

The internet has become an indispensable part of modern life, reshaping how individuals

interact, communicate, and perceive themselves. At the core of this digital evolution is the ability

to craft online identities—a process in which individuals intentionally curate and present versions

of themselves across various platforms. Social media, professional networking sites, and other

digital spaces allow users to selectively share personal experiences, achievements, and opinions,

often crafting personas that may or may not align with their offline identities. This practice of

crafting the self is not only a reflection of individuality but also a reaction to the pressures and

affordances of the digital environment.

Online identity crafting involves navigating a complex interplay of self-expression,

audience expectations, and technological possibilities. Individuals may present different facets of

their identity depending on the platform they use. For example, while LinkedIn profiles are tailored

for professional achievements, Instagram posts often showcase aesthetic or personal highlights,

creating a selective portrayal of one's life. This selective self-presentation is influenced by the need

to gain validation, maintain social connections, or meet specific societal norms (Ellison, Heino, &

Gibbs, 2006). However, these practices also blur the boundaries between authentic self-expression

and idealized personas, leading to questions about the authenticity of online identities.

The phenomenon of online identity crossover—the merging of offline and online

identities—adds another layer of complexity. In many cases, individuals struggle to maintain

distinct boundaries between their personal and professional lives or between their public and
private selves. This crossover often leads to ethical dilemmas, such as the risk of misrepresentation,

privacy concerns, and the societal impacts of creating digital personas that may conflict with reality.

For instance, cases of "catfishing" or identity fraud highlight the potential misuse of digital

identities (Whitty, 2008). Moreover, the pressure to maintain a perfect online image has been

linked to negative psychological outcomes, such as anxiety and depression, particularly among

younger users (Chou & Edge, 2012).

This term paper, titled Crafting the Self: Boundaries and Ethical Implications of Online

Identity Crossover, explores the process of creating and managing online identities, focusing on

how these practices intersect with ethical concerns. It seeks to provide a comprehensive

understanding of the opportunities and challenges of online identity crafting, offering insights into

the motivations behind these practices and the ethical considerations they raise. The discussion

will highlight the societal implications of digital identity management, emphasizing the need for

responsible and thoughtful engagement with online platforms.

 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The crafting of online identities has become a fundamental part of contemporary life,

influencing personal relationships, professional opportunities, and societal norms. This term paper

is significant for several reasons. First, it addresses the individual and collective implications of

online identity management in an age where digital interactions dominate daily life. By examining

how individuals navigate the boundaries of their offline and online selves, the study provides

insights into the psychological and social dynamics of self-presentation.

One of the key contributions of this paper is its relevance to mental health. Studies show

that the pressure to conform to idealized online portrayals can have detrimental effects, such as

heightened social anxiety, reduced self-esteem, and feelings of inadequacy (Livingstone, 2008).

Understanding the motivations and consequences of these practices can help individuals make

more informed decisions about their digital presence, fostering healthier relationships with

technology.

This paper also holds importance for educators, parents, and policymakers. For educators

and parents, it provides a framework for guiding young people in navigating the complexities of

digital identity crafting. Teenagers and young adults face unique challenges in balancing

authenticity and social validation in online spaces. For policymakers, the findings offer insights

into the ethical dimensions of digital identity management, emphasizing the need for regulations

that protect user privacy and promote ethical practices among digital platforms (Floridi, 2013).

Finally, this term paper examines the ethical challenges of technology, including data

exploitation and cyberbullying, across sociological, philosophical, physical, sexual, material,

spiritual, political, and digital dimensions, fostering a deeper understanding of identity in social

and cultural contexts.

 SCOPE AND DELIMITATION

The scope of this term paper is defined by its focus on online identity crafting and the

ethical considerations associated with this practice. The paper examines the following areas:

Demographic Focus: The analysis primarily focuses on individuals aged 18–35, who represent

the most active demographic in digital spaces and are more likely to engage in identity crafting.

Platforms: The study emphasizes social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn,

and Twitter, as well as virtual communities and professional networking sites where self-

presentation is a key component.

Themes: The central themes include authenticity, privacy, ethical dilemmas, and the psychological

effects of online identity crafting.

Temporal Context: The paper focuses on trends and practices from the past decade (2013–2023),

a period marked by significant advancements in digital technology and increased reliance on online

platforms.

The term paper does not delve into the technical mechanisms of identity verification or

cybersecurity. Instead, it emphasizes the human and ethical dimensions of crafting online identities,

providing a balanced perspective on this multifaceted issue.

 DEFINITION OF TERMS

Online Identity: The representation of an individual in digital spaces, often constructed

through social media profiles, posts, and interactions.

Identity Crossover: The blending or merging of elements from an individual’s offline

(real-life) identity with their digital persona.

Authenticity: The degree to which an individual’s online persona aligns with their true

self, including their values, character, and intentions.

Privacy: The ability to control what information is shared or accessible about oneself in

digital environments.

Ethical Implications: The moral considerations and societal consequences associated with

practices of online identity crafting.

Digital Footprint: The trail of data left by an individual’s activities in digital spaces,

including posts, searches, and interactions.

Self-Presentation: The deliberate process of shaping how one is perceived by others,

particularly in controlled environments like social media.

Social Validation: The pursuit of approval or recognition from others, often measured by

likes, comments, or shares on social media platforms.

Data Exploitation: The unethical use of personal data, including online identity

information, for purposes such as targeted advertising or surveillance.

 CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Introduction

The rise of the internet has profoundly transformed human interaction, creating avenues

for individuals to craft digital representations of themselves. Online identity crafting, a deliberate

process of shaping one's digital persona, influences personal relationships, professional

opportunities, and societal norms. As users navigate the complexities of online platforms, the

intersection of authenticity, privacy, self-presentation, and ethics emerges as a critical area of study.

To better understand this phenomenon, the following sections will explore the psychological,

social, and ethical dimensions of online identity through a review of current literature, highlighting

both challenges and opportunities presented by digital self-representation.

Online Identity Crafting and Self-Presentation

Online identity crafting allows individuals to curate their self-image by selectively sharing

achievements, thoughts, and personal details. This process is platform-specific, reflecting the goals

and norms of the digital space. For example, LinkedIn emphasizes professional credentials, while

Instagram highlights personal or aesthetic aspects of life (Ellison, Heino, & Gibbs, 2006). Such

crafting is often influenced by the desire for validation or recognition, as well as by societal

expectations (Labrecque & Markos, 2011). This selective representation raises broader questions

about the motivations driving users’ choices and the societal structures that reinforce them.

This curated self-presentation, however, raises questions about authenticity. Whitty (2008)

highlights the tension between the "real" and the "ideal" self, particularly on dating platforms

where users may present enhanced versions of themselves. This phenomenon is not limited to
romantic contexts; it permeates professional spaces, where users may exaggerate achievements to

align with perceived norms (Khamis, Ang, & Welling, 2017). Understanding these dynamics is

crucial to unpacking the broader implications of identity crafting in a digital era, where both

opportunities for self-expression and risks of misrepresentation coexist. The literature underscores

the nuanced ways individuals balance authenticity and idealization in crafting their online personas.

Psychological Implications

The psychological ramifications of online identity crafting are profound, particularly

regarding mental health and self-perception. Chou and Edge (2012) explored how exposure to

curated online content often leads to social comparison and feelings of inadequacy. This

phenomenon highlights the pervasive impact of digital interactions on individual self-worth, where

idealized representations set unrealistic standards. Similarly, Davis (2012) highlighted the

struggles of adolescents who face heightened pressures to conform to idealized norms on social

media platforms. These findings suggest that the psychological effects of online identity crafting

are particularly acute during formative years, when social validation plays a critical role.

Recent research by Nesi (2020) underscores the specific mental health challenges

experienced by youth navigating identity on social platforms. The study identifies the dual role of

social media as a space for self-expression and a potential contributor to anxiety and depression.

This duality reflects a paradox in digital spaces, where opportunities for connection coexist with

risks of emotional harm. Gauntlett (2018) adds a broader perspective, discussing the psychological

effects of creating digital personas and how this shapes users’ self-concept and interpersonal

relationships. This broader lens highlights the interconnectedness of mental health and relational

dynamics in shaping digital identities.

 These studies collectively emphasize the importance of balancing self-expression with the

mental health implications of maintaining an idealized online identity. As users continue to

navigate digital spaces, understanding these psychological impacts becomes vital in fostering

healthier online environments. As platforms continue to evolve, further exploration of these

dynamics remains critical. Such inquiries are essential not only for individual well-being but also

for designing platforms that prioritize positive psychological outcomes.

Ethical Considerations and Identity Crossover

The ethical dimensions of online identity crafting revolve around issues such as privacy,

consent, and the potential for identity manipulation. Floridi (2013) argued for a framework of

information ethics to address the exploitation of user data. This framework emphasizes the need

for systems that respect user autonomy while addressing the inherent vulnerabilities of digital

environments. Whitty (2008) expanded this conversation by examining the ethical dilemmas posed

by deceptive online practices like catfishing. These deceptive practices highlight the darker side

of identity crafting, where ethical boundaries are often blurred.

Niessen et al. (2016) further delve into how digital environments perpetuate systemic

biases, questioning the fairness of algorithm-driven identity visibility. This points to a pressing

need for greater transparency and accountability in algorithmic design to mitigate the perpetuation

of inequalities. Lin, Law, and Zhou (2017) argued that AI technologies contribute to this issue by

reinforcing societal stereotypes, raising ethical concerns about their impact on identity presentation.

These insights demonstrate how digital systems, while designed for personalization, often

inadvertently replicate existing societal biases.

Berg et al. (2013) investigated the intersection of job crafting and online identities,

revealing that the creation of professional personas on platforms like LinkedIn often blurs ethical
lines between personal branding and authenticity. This ethical ambiguity underscores the tension

between personal marketing and genuine representation, particularly in professional contexts. The

crossover between online and offline identities necessitates a rethinking of ethical standards, as

these personas increasingly influence real-world interactions. By addressing these ethical

challenges, researchers and developers can work toward creating digital spaces that better align

with societal values and individual rights.

Social Validation and Cultural Influences

The pursuit of social validation plays a central role in online identity crafting. Labrecque

and Markos (2011) explore how users shape their digital personas to align with societal

expectations, often at the expense of authenticity. The role of algorithms in amplifying this

behavior is significant, as platforms reward engagement-driven content with greater visibility

(Pataranutaporn et al., 2021). Such interactions between human behavior and algorithmic design

reveal the complex forces shaping online identity practices.

Cultural contexts also shape how users present themselves online. Tracy (2024) highlights

how digital spaces reflect societal norms, enabling users to negotiate their identities within broader

cultural frameworks. For instance, individuals in collectivist cultures may emphasize familial or

group affiliations in their online profiles, while those in individualist cultures may prioritize

personal achievements. This interplay between culture and digital identity suggests that online

self-presentation cannot be fully understood without considering the broader social and cultural

environment.

Psychological and Ethical Impacts of AI in Online Identity

 The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into digital platforms has further complicated

online identity crafting. AI-generated content, such as filters and automated personas, blurs the

line between authenticity and fabrication (Pataranutaporn et al., 2021). While these tools enhance

creative expression, they also raise ethical concerns about manipulation and misinformation. This

dual-edged impact of AI necessitates a nuanced exploration of how such tools influence user

autonomy and perception.

Leavitt (2015) discusses the implications of AI-mediated communication, where users rely

on algorithms to tailor their messages for specific audiences. This reliance on AI introduces new

challenges in maintaining authentic communication, as users grapple with the tension between

self-expression and algorithmic optimization. These insights point to a growing need for

accountability in AI design, particularly as it relates to preserving human agency in identity

crafting.

Recommendations for Future Research

While current literature provides valuable insights, several gaps remain. Future research

should focus on longitudinal studies to track how identity crafting evolves over time, particularly

in response to technological advancements. Additionally, interdisciplinary approaches that

combine psychology, sociology, and technology studies could deepen our understanding of the

ethical implications of online identity practices. Such efforts would ensure that future

investigations remain relevant and capable of addressing emerging challenges.

Exploring the impact of AI on marginalized communities and vulnerable populations is

another critical area. As digital platforms become more sophisticated, ensuring equitable access

and ethical usage will be essential to fostering inclusive online environments. This focus will not
only enrich the academic discourse but also provide practical solutions for creating fairer digital

ecosystems.
 REFERENCES

Berg, J. M., Dutton, J. E., & Wrzesniewski, A. (2013). Job crafting and meaningful

work. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 33(1), 81–109. https://doi.org/10.1002/job.573

Buchanan, E. A. (2011). Internet research ethics: Past, present, and future. The

Handbook of Internet Studies. Wiley. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781444314861

Chou, H.-T. G., & Edge, N. (2012). “They are happier and having better lives than I am”:

The impact of using Facebook on perceptions of others' lives. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and

Social Networking, 15(2), 117–121.

Davis, K. (2012). Tensions of identity in a networked era: Young people's perspectives on

the risks and rewards of online self-expression. New Media & Society, 14(4), 634–651.

https://doi.org/10.1177/1461444811422430

Ellison, N. B., Heino, R. D., & Gibbs, J. L. (2006). Managing impressions online: Self-

presentation processes in the online dating environment. Journal of Computer-Mediated

Communication, 11(2), 415-441.

Floridi, L. (2013). The ethics of information. Oxford University Press.

Gauntlett, D. (2018). Making is connecting: The social power of creativity, from craft and

knitting to digital everything. Polity Press.

Khamis, S., Ang, L., & Welling, R. (2017). Self-branding, 'micro-celebrity,' and the rise

of social media influencers. Celebrity Studies, 8(2), 191–208.

https://doi.org/10.1080/19392397.2016.1218292

Labrecque, L. I., & Markos, E. (2011). Online personal branding: Processes, challenges,

and implications. Journal of Interactive Marketing, 25(1), 37–50.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.intmar.2010.09.002
 Leavitt, A. (2015). This is a throwaway account: Temporary technical identities and

perceptions of anonymity. ACM Proceedings, 18th CSCW Conference.

https://doi.org/10.1145/2675133.2675175

Lin, B., Law, K. S., & Zhou, J. (2017). Why is underemployment related to creativity and

OCB? A task-crafting explanation of the curvilinear moderated relations. Academy of

Management Journal, 60(1), 123–144. https://doi.org/10.5465/amj.2014.0470

Livingstone, S. (2008). Taking risky opportunities in youthful content creation: Teenagers'

use of social networking sites for intimacy, privacy, and self-expression. New Media & Society,

10(3), 393–411.

Nesi, J. (2020). The impact of social media on youth mental health: Challenges and

opportunities. North Carolina Medical Journal, 81(2), 116–121.

https://doi.org/10.18043/ncm.81.2.116

Niessen, C., Weseler, D., & Kostova, P. (2016). When and why do individuals craft their

jobs? The role of individual motivation and work characteristics for job crafting. Human Relations,

69(6), 1287–1313. https://doi.org/10.1177/0018726715610642

Pataranutaporn, P., Danry, V., & Leong, J. (2021). AI-generated characters for

supporting personalized learning and well-being. Nature Machine Intelligence, 3(4), 298–307.

https://doi.org/10.1038/s42256-021-00417-9

Teng, C. I. (2017). Impact of avatar identification on online gamer loyalty. International

Journal of Information Management, 37(6), 593–602.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijinfomgt.2017.05.008
 Tracy, S. J. (2024). Qualitative research methods: Collecting evidence, crafting analysis,

communicating impact. Oxford University Press.

Whitty, M. T. (2008). Revealing the "real" me, searching for the "actual" you:

Presentations of self on an internet dating site. Computers in Human Behavior, 24(4), 1707-1723.