The effect of Social Networks [media] like facebook, twitter, MySpace, etc is hard to ignore. Nigerian youth alongside their counterpart around the global are fast making the social media become part of their daily activities. That is why it will be of little or no wonder to see number of youths wake up and the first port of call is to update a “good morning” message on facebook or any other social network that appeals to their sense of value. This is a clear picture of the level of participation on the social network.
However, technology like two sides of a coin, bring with it both the negative and positive sides. Against all odds, Branston, G. & Stafford, R. in 2010 explains that any debate arising that the effects of the social network (or media) should be handled from two angle of view and considered from two main attitudes so as to harness the effects objectively. They suggest the following as the two attitudes to consider the effect of the social media from, the pessimistic (negative) attitude and the Optimistic/ Utopian (positive) attitude.
Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
2. NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF SOCIAL NETWORKS (OR MEDIA)
3. POSITIVE EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA
4. CONCLUSION
Objectives and Topics
The paper examines the dual impact of social media on contemporary society, specifically focusing on the behavioral and academic consequences for Nigerian youth, while exploring both the destructive influence of digital addiction and the potential for constructive academic interaction.
- Analysis of social media addiction and its impact on academic performance.
- Examination of digital fraud and moral decline associated with social networks.
- Evaluation of the positive potential for communication and knowledge exchange.
- Impact of social media on self-confidence and interpersonal skills among students.
Excerpt from the book
NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF SOCIAL NETWORKS (OR MEDIA)
Concurringly, the effect of social network from the pessimistic stand point is increasing dramatically. Society at the invent of the social network is changing from what it used to be, to what nobody can account for other than the negative effect of the social network; these negative effects of the social media has robbed society of its social values and norms. According Sule, A. (2012) before the introduction of the digital social media in Nigeria, so many people had negative thoughts about others: government or individuals and held various negative values and desires. But, they had no platform to share or pour out such into the social context of society. So, they had their negative influence concealed to them; either suppressed or retained in the subconscious. Nevertheless, the emergence of the social networking media has change the order of social value. Sule, A. (2012) believes that the social network has stimulated the release of one’s innermost thought, values, or desire, a concept he terms: “Digital Technology Masturbation Syndrome (DTMS)”.
Furthermore, it is clear that most of our youths, especially undergraduate students have lost their control over social media usage and begun having problems with their functionality in social, vocational and personal circles as the internet has taken over total control of their lives. They have given the social networking media the indescribable power over their sense of decision and focus. This has influenced to a great extent what and who they connect with, what they look at, and the measures of their decision making process. Idakwo (2011) posit that school work and social interaction have been affected at the advent of these social media.
Chapter Summary
INTRODUCTION: This section introduces the pervasive influence of social media on Nigerian youth and establishes the framework for examining its impact through both pessimistic and optimistic lenses.
NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF SOCIAL NETWORKS (OR MEDIA): This chapter details the detrimental consequences of social media, including addiction, the rise of digital fraud, moral erosion, and the phenomenon termed as Digital Technology Masturbation Syndrome.
POSITIVE EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA: This chapter highlights the beneficial aspects of social media, specifically how it reshapes academic and social interaction by providing platforms for communication and self-confidence building.
CONCLUSION: The concluding section summarizes findings on social media usage among students and calls for better integration of these platforms into academic environments to foster educational growth.
Keywords
Social media, Nigerian youth, Digital Technology Masturbation Syndrome, Internet addiction, Academic performance, Digitalized stealing, Social networking, Media violence, Communication, Moral erosion, Virtual interaction, Educational pursuit, Online fraud, Social values, Empowerment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core subject of this document?
The document investigates the multifaceted impacts of social media on modern society, specifically focusing on the behavioral shifts and challenges faced by Nigerian undergraduate students.
What are the primary thematic areas explored?
The themes include the psychological impact of social media, its role in academic neglect, its contribution to moral decline and cyber-fraud, and its potential for positive social and academic connectivity.
What is the primary research focus?
The research aims to evaluate how social media usage influences the daily activities, moral judgment, and academic focus of youths, balancing the negative risks against the potential for constructive development.
What scientific methodology is applied?
The study relies on a synthesis of existing literature, expert definitions, and empirical observations of student behavior to analyze the dualistic nature of social media influence.
What does the main body address?
The main body systematically explores the pessimistic view of social media—highlighting issues like addiction and crime—followed by an exploration of its optimistic role in fostering improved communication and self-expression.
Which keywords characterize the work?
The core keywords include social media, digital addiction, Nigerian youth, academic performance, social values, cyber-fraud, and digital communication.
What is meant by "Digital Technology Masturbation Syndrome"?
It is a concept cited in the text to describe the unrestrained release of one's innermost thoughts, values, or desires through social media platforms, often replacing conventional social norms.
How does the author describe the impact on student academics?
The author argues that excessive time spent on social platforms leads to distraction, divided attention, and neglect of educational pursuits, ultimately impairing academic performance.
Are there positive conclusions drawn?
Yes, the author concludes that while risks exist, social media can provide a vital platform for students to overcome conversational fears, enhance self-confidence, and access a broader knowledge spectrum.
- Quote paper
- Edikan Ukpong (Author), 2014, The Positive and Negative Effects of Social Media, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/508570
