So, it looks like this embarrassing habit is actually GOOD for you

Some take dozens a day and others opt for a more minimal approach, but there are very, very few amongst us who don't indulge in the odd selfie from time to time.

And it turns out this little habit, which older generations literally can't get their heads around, is pretty good for us.

Exploring the phenomenon during a recent study, researchers at the University of California established that taking selfies has a positive effect on the individual's mental health.

Using 41 students – 28 female and 13 male – psychologists analysed the group's day to day routine for four weeks and requested that participants – in the first week – make note of their mood and the time or event which influenced it at least three times a day.

In the three weeks which followed the introductory period, students were required to take a photo each time they made note of their mood change.

Dividing the group into three, one were instructed to take a smiling selfie, another were asked to snap a place or object which brought them joy while the third were asked to take a photo of something that would make someone else happy before sending it to them.

Researchers soon established that the group which indulged in multiple selfie shoots over the course of three weeks were happier and more confident than their fellow participants.

And that's all we need to know.