Effects of Facebook Usage on Mental Health and Behavior of Students of Bachelor of Science in Tourism: A Guide

Abstract

Facebook usage affects the mental health and behavior of the students. We should know about this topic because this kind of network may create dependency, with several negative consequences on people’s lives. Facebook may be beneficial, but overusing it may cause problems. Facebook usage may affect one’s mental health and behavior. The use of social media platforms such as Facebook may lead to depression, anxiety, poor sleep quality, and stress, which are often observed in teens and adolescents. This aspect is one of the problems that this study will discuss. This study is a mix of purposive and mixed with quantitative and qualitative research. The research subject of this study was composed of 50 selected Tourism students. First, the data gathered were statistically treated through a descriptive method by using thematic analysis. The process went beyond data gathering; it also involved the analysis and interpretation of the significance of what was described. Thus, the description was often combined with comparison or contrast, involving measurement, classification, analysis, and interpretation. The results of the study showed that Facebook usage affected the mental health of the respondents, with a composite weighted mean of 2.81. Facebook usage affected the behavior, with a composite weighted mean of 2.76. The respondents used a smartphone to access Facebook, with the length of use being 4–5 hours. The extent of Facebook usage affected their mental health and behavior in terms of the extent of Facebook usage in terms of family, which obtained a composite weighted mean of 2.90. In terms of friends, the extent of Facebook usage had a composite weighted mean of 2.90. In terms of school, the extent of Facebook usage had a composite weighted mean of 3.04. The data showed that Facebook usage had a moderate effect on the mental health and behavior of the respondents. This study showed that the students should focus on their subject content, syllabus, projects, activities, and examinations instead of using Facebook. Parents should set a limit on their children regarding their Facebook usage, spend quality time with their children, and encourage them to do more indoor and outdoor activities than to waste their time on Facebook.