A YOUTH AWARENESS PROGRAM ON RESPONSIBLE SOCIAL MEDIA NAVIGATION

Abstract

Social media plays a central role in contemporary life, especially among young people who use it for communication, entertainment, and personal expression. However, its rapid expansion has also brought significant challenges, including cyberbullying, the spread of misinformation, addiction, privacy breaches, and detrimental effects on mental health. This study employs a quantitative research approach to thoroughly analyze the impacts of social media on youth. Survey data is collected from respondents aged 15 to 35, aiming to assess the necessity of youth awareness programs focused on responsible social media use. This method allows the research to identify statistical patterns and understand the experiences of young individuals as they encounter crime-related content online (Zhang, 2023). The findings of this study highlight the need for educational programs that promote responsible social media use among young people. Exposure to crime-related content on social media can distort their perception, leading them to believe that crime is more prevalent and violent than it actually is. This underscores the importance of fostering media literacy and critical thinking in the digital age. Conversely, some forms of social media engagement can foster greater awareness and critical thinking. Platforms that support balanced discourse and share accurate, data-driven crime statistics can encourage youth to participate in civic discussions and develop a more informed and realistic perspective on crime trends.