Hailed as a revolutionary tool for communication and connection, social media is increasingly seen as a force that undermines the moral compass of today’s youth. Platforms designed to foster interaction and community often become arenas where superficial values are amplified and rewarded.
According to a discussion on Newscentral’s breakfast programme, Jasiri, the relentless pursuit of likes, shares, and followers encourages behaviours that prioritise image and fame over integrity and genuine connection with young users pressuring themselves to conform to trending behaviours and ideals, which often erode personal ethics and dilute their sense of self-worth.
Speaking on trending topics, including the tragic one where a student was kidnapped for ransom and subsequently killed, media personality Roby Ekpo highlighted that youths are bombarded with idealised images and lifestyles that are often unattainable and unrealistic. The constant exposure to filtered realities can distort their understanding of what is essential and desirable, leading to feelings of inadequacy and a diminished sense of personal value.
Moreover, exposure to gaming violence and in an online context has catalysed the propensity to commit unjustified violent acts.
Additionally, according to them, social media platforms often act as echo chambers, where individuals are exposed primarily to viewpoints reinforcing their beliefs and biases. They become increasingly entrenched in their viewpoints and less tolerant of differing opinions.
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