Use of Social Media by Urban Indian Youth and its impact on Social Behavior

Use of Social Media by Urban Indian Youth and its impact on Social Behavior
(Special Reference to the Youth of Ahmedabad)
Shashikant Bhagat, PhDResearch Scholar, Hemchandracharya North Gujarat University,Patan.
Keywords: Internet, Social Media, Social Networking Sites (SNS), Social Behaviour, Virtual chats,
Digital platform, Interpersonal relations, Digital media, daily behavior.
Abstract: In todays’ fast paced world we keep ourselves updated and informed about various
happenings around us and form opinions and make judgments on various issues through the use of
social media. Internet and rapid digitalization has impacted every aspect of lives across all age groups
by making our communication impersonal. Usage of social media and Social Networking Sites (SNS)
has increased significantly with far reaching impacts on the social, emotional, academic and physical
development of the youth today. All forms of communications particularly, face-to-face social
interactions have been reduced to virtual chats over the internet. Extensive usage of SNS is also
influencing their interpersonal relationships particularly with their family members, friends and society
at large which is likely to be more pronounced in the impressionable age group of 15 – 25 years. This
paper endeavors to throw light on above mentioned aspects through research,review of literature and
aims to examine the impact of social media on the social behavior of urban Indian youth with special
reference to the youth of Ahmedabad.
ProblemStatement: Youthtoday spends disproportionate amount of time online; visiting social media
sites, chatting, researching on the internet etc. Consequent to their crammed time schedule due to
academic workload, pressures for preparing for competitive exams etc, they are left with very limited
time available to them for social interaction or routine social activities, which is bound to impact on his
social adjustment, behavior and social awareness. This phenomenon is likely to be more pronounced
amongst the youth in their impressionable age of 15-25 years, when they are still in the process of
formulating their opinion about the world around them.
Objectives ofStudy: The objectives of study of the research paper are as under:-
(a) To collate and analyses data on average time spent by the urban youth online.
(b) To examine the impact of social media on the social behavior of urban Indian youth with special
reference to the youth of Ahmedabad.
(c) To recommend changes to their lifestyle to overcome the negative effects.
Introduction: In last about three decades, internet has made inroads as a means of communication,
digital technology has made a quantum leap in the manner it is used, its effects on human
communication and relationships. Ever since Social Networking Sites (SNS) like Facebook, Twitter,
Instagram etc have emerged as a prominent means of social interaction, it has eclipsed all facets of our
lives. India has been on the forefront of the digital revolution and will be second largest internet user as
per the findings of Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), as brought out in their report
“Internet in India 2015”. As per one of the reports on social media usage, India has more than 120
million users on Facebook alone of which more than 50% are in the age group 13-25 years. Emerging
studies find that youth spend a considerable portion of their daily life interacting through social media.
Subsequently, questions and controversies emerge about the effects SNS have on adolescent
development. The rapid adoption of SNS by youth in India raises some important questions e.g. Why
does youth flock to these sites? What are they expressing on them? And how do these sites fit into their
lives?
Review of Literature: The following literature has been referred to while preparing for the
research:-
(a) Siddiqui, Shabnoor and Singh, Tejinder (2016). “Social Media has various
merits but it also has some demerits which effect people negatively. False information
can lead the education system to failure, in an organisation wrong advertisement will

affect the productivity, social media can abuse the society by invading on peoples’
privacy, some useless blogs can influence youth that can become violent and can take
some inappropriate actions”.
(b) Ahn, June (2016). “.....longer use of the internet was related to increased
depression, loneliness and smaller social circles. The results suggest that internet use
isolates individuals from their friends and family, and has a negative impact on ones’
psychological well-being. This effect is known as the reduction hypothesis (Valkenburg
& Peter, 2009)”.
(c) Dr Neelamalar, M & Chitra, P (2009). “The study found that the frequency with
which adolescents used the site had an indirect effect on their social self-esteem and
well-being. Positive feedback on the profiles enhanced adolescents’ social self-esteem
and wellbeing, whereas negative feedback decreased their self-esteem and well-being”.
(d) Manjunatha, S. (2013). “The majority of current college students in India have
had access to the Internet and computers for a large percentage of their lives. These
digital natives see these technologies as a logical extension of traditional
communication methods, and perceive social networking sites as often a much quicker
and more convenient way to interact. That they are aware of the danger and risk
involved in these sites is a positive indicator that Indian college students are not only
techno-savvy and socially active through social networking sites but they also possess
social consciousness”Are these online activities like face-to-face relationships? Are they
different or complimentary?
This research paper endeavors to examine the issues of usage of SNS by Indian youth and the effects
on their social behavior and adaptation, through collection of data, its systematic analysis and review
of literature to answer the pertinent questions about the effects of social media on the social behaviour
of urban Indian youth with special reference to the youth of Ahmedabad.
Framework of Hypothesis: Hypothesis which have been shortlisted to be the basis of research
for this research paper are as under:-
(a) H1 - There is an easy availability of digital platform and social media across all age
groups.
(b) H2 - Changes in lifestyle of youth is affecting their physical and emotional
development.
(c) H3 - Social Networking Sites (SNS) have become an attractive option due to
changes in level of interpersonal interaction in an average household.
(d) H4 - Increased usage of SNS is adversely impacting the social growth of an
average Indian youth.
ResearchMethodology: Research methodology which has been incorporated for the research
is enumerated as under:-
(a) Sampling Frame – The data has been collected through random sampling of
candidates, in the age group 15–25 years, from schools and other educational institutes
located in Ahmedabad. Sample has a proportionate mix of students from public, private
schools and colleges.
(b) Sample Size – Keeping the scope and time limitation of the research, a sample
size of 100 is considered adequate. The sample has been distributed proportionately
amongst both gender, type of education institute and age brackets within the age group
selected for the sampling frame.
(c) Data Collection

(i) Primary data has been collected through the use of questionna ire
formulated to gain information about usage pattern of SNS, purpose of usage of
SNS, hours spent per day/week, lifestyle pattern, preferred SNS, level of intimate
relationships with online friends, interpersonal relationships and other aspects
relevant to the research.
(ii) Secondary data has been collected from the review of relevant literature.
ResearchAnalysis
Appropriate statistical tools and theoretical analysis has been applied at the time of data
analysis based on the final data collected.
ResearchFindings
Respondents Profile
13. Extensive use of SNS by youth in their impressionable age is bound to influence their
interpersonal relationships particularly with their family members, friends and society at large.
In our endeavour to examine the issues of use of SNS by Indian youth and its effects on their
social behaviour and adaptation, data has been collected through random sampling of
candidates in the age group 15–25 years, from schools and other educational institutes located
in Ahmedabad. The sample size of 100 has a proportionate mix of students from public, private
schools and colleges which has been distributed proportionately amongst both gender, type of
education institute and age brackets within the age group.
80
48 52
63 70
60 30 30
25 24 24 2240 12
20
0
MALE
FEMA
LE
15TO
17YEAR
S
18TO
20YEARS
21TO
25YEARS
10TO
12th
GRAD
UATE
/POST
GRAD
UATE
CBSESCH
OOL
GSEBSC
HOOL
PRIVATE
SCHOOL
PRIVATECOLLEGE
GENDER
AGE
GROUP EDUCATION
TYPE OF EDUCATION
INSTITUTE
Fig. 1
Data Analysis. Based on the data collected, analysis arrived at is explained as under:-
(a) Out of a sample size of 100, 48 male and 52 female students have been examined,
63 students are in the age group of 15 to 17 years, 12 in the age group of 18 to 20 years and
25 are in the age group of 21 to 25 years. While 70
students are in 10th to 12th class, 30 are graduates and pursuing post-graduation.
(b) Out of 100 students, 24 students are from CBSE school, 24 students are from
GSEB school, 22 students are from Private school and 30 students are from Private
college.

Deduction. In order to arrive at a representative analysis, endeavour has been made to have a
mix of students from various walks of life and strata. In this connection reference is made to
Fig. 1 and Question No 1 (a), (b), (c) and (d) of the questionnaire.
Daily Utilization of Time
16. In todays’ fast paced world, youth spends considerable amount of time online; visiting
social media sites, chatting, researching on the internet etc. Consequent to their crammed time
schedule due to academic workload, pressures for preparing for competitive exams etc, they
are left with very limited time available to them for social interaction or routine social
activities, which is bound to impact on his social adjustment, behaviour and social awareness.
This phenomenon is likely to be more
5
pronounced amongst the youth in their impressionable age of 15-25 years, when they are still
in the process of formulating their opinion about the world around them. With this in mind,
efforts have been made to collate data about the amount of time spent daily in school, on
coaching/tuition/practical work/internship, correspondingly how much time is available for
games/physical activities and how much time is spent daily using internet.
AVERAGE DAILY UTILISATION OF TIME
TIME
(HOURS)
8.0
6.0
4.0
2.0
0.0
AGE 15 TO 17
YEARS
AGE 18 TO 20
YEARS AGE 21 TO
25 YEARS

Fig. 2
(a) Out of a sample size of 100, 6.6 hours are utilized by students in the age group
15 to 17 years; 6.2 hours are utilized by students in the group 18 to 20 years and 5.5
hours are utilized by students in the age group 21 to 25 years of their time in academics.
On an average 6.28 hours of time in a day are utilized by the students for academics.
(b) Out of a sample size of 100, 2.6 hours are utilized by students in the age group
hours are utilized by students in the age group 21 to 25 years of their time for
coaching/tuition/practical work/internship. On an average 2.89 hours of time in a day
are utilized by the students for coaching/tuition/practical work/internship.
(c) Out of a sample size of 100, 1.3 hours are utilized by students in the age group
hours are utilized by students in the age group 21 to 25 years of their time for
games/physical activities. On an average 1.29 hours of time in a day are utilized by the
students for coaching/tuition.
(d) Out of a sample size of 100, 1.9 hours are utilized by students in the age group
hours are utilized by students in the age group 21 to 25 years of their time on internet.
On an average 3.08 hours of time in a day are utilized by the students on internet.
(e) Out of a sample size of 100, 5.6 hours are available to students in the age group
15 to 17 years; 3.8 hours are available to students in the group 18 to 20 years and 2.0
hours are available to students in the age group 21 to 25 years as quality time. On an
average 3.08 hours of quality time is available to the students.
6
Deduction. Indian youth today has a fairly busy and cramped daily schedule. Out of a sample size
of 100, youth spends an average of 9.17 hours in a day is spent in academics,
coaching/tuition/practical work/internship, apart from an average time of 3.08 hours being engaged
in internet based activities; which leaves them with meagre average of 1.29 hours for
games/physical activities and 3.08 hours of quality time in a day for any other activities. In this
connection reference is made to Fig. 2 and Question No 2 (a), (b), (c) and Question No 3 (a)
and (b) of the questionnaire.
Use of Internet and SNS
19. We keep ourselves updated and informed about various happenings around us and form
opinions and make judgements on various issues through the use of social media. Internet and
rapid digitalization has impacted every aspect of lives across all age groups by making our
communication impersonal. Use of social media and Social Networking Sites (SNS) increases
significantly while growing up and gets associated with academic/work related environment
for studies/research work, online coaching/tuition, playing games, social networking sites,

downloading movies/music. Social media is also used extensively for updating profile, making
friends, chatting, sharing files, blogging or even browsing friend’s profile.
USE OF INTERNET (%)
120 100
92
100 86 8478
75
6467
15 TO
1780 58 50
60 YEARS36 33 36
40 17 8 5 17 12 18 TO 2020
YEARS0
Fig. 3.1
USE OF SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES (%)
76 75 76
6880 67 64 67
60
15 TO
17
60 44
58 51
58
3742 YEARS32
40 25 28 24
18 TO
20
10
YEARS20 6 0
0
21 TO
25
YEARS
Fig. 3.2

7
(a) Out of a sample size of 100, 86 students in the age group of 15 to 17 years, 58
students in the age group 18 to 20 years and 100 students in the age group 21 to 25
years use internet for studies/research.
(b) Out of a sample size of 100, 17 students in the age group of 15 to 17 years, 08
students in the age group 18 to 20 years and 36 students in the age group 21 to 25 years
use internet for online coaching/tuition.
(c) Out of a sample size of 100, 33 students in the age group of 15 to 17 years, 50
use internet for playing games.
(d) Out of a sample size of 100, 78 students in the age group of 15 to 17 years, 92
use internet to visit various SNS.
(e) Out of a sample size of 100, 67 students in the age group of 15 to 17 years, 75
use internet for downloading movies/music.
(f) Out of a sample size of 100, 05 students in the age group of 15 to 17 years, 17
use internet for various other purposes.
(g) Out of a sample size of 100, 44 students in the age group of 15 to 17 years, 67
use SNS to update their profile.
(h) Out of a sample size of 100, 32 students in the age group of 15 to 17 years, 58
use SNS for making friends.
(i) Out of a sample size of 100, 75 students in the age group of 15 to 17 years, 67
use SNS for chatting.
(j) Out of a sample size of 100, 51 students in the age group of 15 to 17 years, 58
use SNS for sharing files.
(k) Out of a sample size of 100, 10 students in the age group of 15 to 17 years, 25
use SNS for blogging.
(l) Out of a sample size of 100, 37 students in the age group of 15 to 17 years, 42
use SNS for browsing friends’ profile.
(m) Out of a sample size of 100, 06 students in the age group of 15 to 17 years, no
use SNS for various other purposes.
Deduction. Internet is widely being used by the Indian youth for a variety of purposes. Out of
a sample size of 100, an average of 86 use it for studies/research,
21 use it for online coaching/tuition, 36 use it for playing games, 81 use it for visiting various
SNS, 67 use it for downloading music/movies and 08 use it for various other activities. Out of
a sample size of 100, an average of 55 use SNS for updating their

8
profile, 43 use it for making friends, 74 use it for chatting, 56 use it for sharing files, 24 use it for
blogging, 35 use it for browsing a friends’ profile while 10 use it for various other purposes. In
this connection reference is made to Fig. 3.1, Fig. 3.2 and
Question No 3 (c) and (d) of the questionnaire.
Use of Digital Devices to Access SNS
21. Majority of youth in India have access to the Interne, computers and various digital devices
for a large percentage of their lives. The technology is seen as logical extension of traditional
communication by these digital citizens who identify SNS as a much quicker and more
convenient way to network. Youth not only considers it natural and fashionable but also it is
seen as being in sync to be on Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Linkedin, Instagram, Hike,
Pinterest, Google+, Youtube, Vine or Tumbler amongst a few by accessing SNS through PC,
Laptop, Smartphone, iPod/iPad, Tablet etc at school/ college or at home.
NUMBER OF PORTALS SUBSCRIBED
NUMBE
R
7.0
6.0
5.0
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.0
0.0
AGE 15 TO 17
YEARS
AGE 18 TO 20
YEARS
AGE 21 TO 25
YEARS
Fig. 4
(a) Out of a sample size of 100, 4.7 SNS in the age group of 15 to 17 years, 6.1 SNS in the
age group 18 to 20 years and 6.6 SNS in the age group 21 to 25 years are visited namely
Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Linkedin, Instagram, Hike, Pinterest, Google+, Youtube,
Vine or Tumbler amongst a few others.
Deduction. Out of a sample size of 100, an average of 05 SNS platforms ranging from
Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Linkedin, Instagram, Hike, Pinterest, Google+, Youtube, Vine
or Tumbler amongst a few are assessed by using minimum 2 PC, laptop, smartphone,
iPod/iPad, Tablet etc. In this connection reference is made to Fig. 4 and Question No 3 (e),
(f) and (g) of the questionnaire.

9
Influence of Social Media on Social Behaviour/Lifestyle
25. Various forms of communications particularly, face-to-face social interactions have been
reduced to virtual chats over the internet. Extensive usage of social media is also influencing
the interpersonal relationships of youth particularly with their family members, friends and
society at large.
Friends Circle
26. Friends play a vital role in the lives of everyone more so during the young age. As per one of
the reports on social media usage, India has more than 120 million users on Facebook alone of
which more than 50% are in the age group 13 to 25 years.
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
10TO15
16TO20
21TO25
MORETHAN
25
LESSTHAN50
50TO100
101TO200
201TO400
MORETHAN
400
10TO15
16TO20
21TO25
MORETHAN
25LESSTHAAN
50
50TO100
101TO200
201TO400
MORETHAN
40010TO15
16TO20
21TO25
MORETHAN
25
LESSTHAN50
50TO100
101TO200
201TO400
MORETHAN
400
PHYSIC
AL
VIRTUAL
FRIENDS
PHYSIC
AL
VIRTUAL
FRIENDS
PHYSIC
AL
VIRTUAL
FRIENDS
FRIEND
S
FRIEND
S
FRIEND
S
AGE 15 TO
17
AGE 18 TO
20
AGE 21 TO
25
Fig. 5
(a) Out of a sample size of 100; 38 youth had 10 to 15 physical friends while 43
had less than 50 virtual friends, 17 youth had 16 to 20 physical friends while 35 had 50
to 100 virtual friends, 10 youth had 21 to 25 physical friends while 13 youth had 101
to 200 virtual friends, 35 youth had more than 25 physical friends while 08 youth had
201 to 400 virtual friends and 02 had more than 400 virtual friends in the age group of
15 to 17 years.
(b) Out of a sample size of 100; 50 youth had 10 to 15 physical friends while 08 had
less than 50 virtual friends, 33 youth had 16 to 20 physical friends while 58 had 50 to 100
virtual friends, none of the youth had 21 to 25 physical friends while 17 youth had 101 to
200 virtual friends, 17 youth had more than 25 physical friends while 17 youth had 201 to
400 virtual friends and none of the youth had more than 400 virtual friends in the age group
of 18 to 20 years.
(c) Out of a sample size of 100; 56 youth had 10 to 15 physical friends while 04 had
less than 50 virtual friends, 16 youth had 16 to 20 physical friends while 68 had 50 to 100
virtual friends, 08 youth had 21 to 25 physical friends while 12 youth had 101 to 200 virtual
friends, 20 youth had more than 25 physical friends
while 08 youth had 201 to 400 virtual friends and 08 youth had more than 400 virtual
friends in the age group of 21 to 25 years.

10
Deduction. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 44 youth had 10 to 15 friends, 19 youth had
16 to 20 friends, 08 youth had 21 to 25 friends and 29 youth had more than 25 physical friends.
Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 29 youth had less than 50 friends, 46 youth had 50 to
100 friends, 13 youth had 101 to 200 friends, 09 youth had 201 to 400 friends and 03 youth had
more than 400 virtual friends. In this connection reference is made to Fig. 5 and Question No 4
(a) and (b) of the questionnaire.
Influence of Social Media on Relationships with Family and Friends
29. Use of social media has increased significantly with far reaching impacts on the
social, emotional, academic and physical development of the youth today. The frequency with
which youth uses the internet has an indirect effect on their social self-esteem and well-being.
It also has a varied degree of effect on relationship with family members and friends. Positive
feedback on the profiles can enhance their social self-esteem and wellbeing, whereas negative
feedback can decrease their self-esteem and well-being.
60
50
40
30
20
RELATION WITH FAMILY
10
RELATION WITH FRIENDS
0
POSITIVE
NEGATI
VE
INDIFFER
ENT
NOEFFECT
POSITIVE
NEGATI
VE
INDIFFER
ENT
NOEFFECT
POSITIVE
NEGATI
VE
INDIFFER
ENT
NOEFFECT
AGE 15
TO 17
AGE 18
TO 20
AGE 21 TO
25
Fig. 6
Data Analysis. Based on the data collected, analysis arrived at is explained
as under:-
(a) Out of a sample size of 100; 19 youth felt that social media has had positive
impact on their relationship with family and 49 felt it has had positive impact on their
relationship with their friends, 10 youth felt that social media has had negative impact
on their relationship with family and none felt it has had negative impact on their
relationship with their friends, while 19 youth were indifferent about social media
having an impact on their relationship with family and 06 were indifferent about impact
on their relationship with their friends, while 52 youth felt that social media has had no
impact on their relationship with family and 43 felt it has had any impact on their
relationship with their friends in the age group of 15 to 17 years.
(b) Out of a sample size of 100; 08 youth felt that social media has had positive
impact on their relationship with family and 42 felt it has had positive
impact on their relationship with their friends, 42 youth felt that social media has

11
had negative impact on their relationship with family and 25 felt it has had negative
impact on their relationship with their friends, while 08 youth were indifferent about
social media having an impact on their relationship with family and 06 were indifferent
about impact on their relationship with their friends, while 25 youth felt that social
media has had no impact on their relationship with family and 25 felt it has had any
impact on their relationship with their friends in the age group of 18 to 20 years.
(c) Out of a sample size of 100; 28 youth felt that social media has had positive impact
on their relationship with family and 28 felt it has had positive impact on their
relationship with their friends, 04 youth felt that social media has had negative impact
on their relationship with family and 08 felt it has had negative impact on their
relationship with their friends, while 16 youth were indifferent about social media
having an impact on their relationship with family and 24 were indifferent about impact
on their relationship with their friends, while 52 youth felt that social media has had no
impact on their relationship with family and 40 felt it has had any impact on their
relationship with their friends in the age group of 21 to 25 years.
Deduction. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 20 youth felt that social media has had
positive impact on their relationship with family and 43 felt it has had positive impact on their
relationship with their friends, 12 youth felt that social media has had negative impact on their
relationship with family and 06 felt it has had negative impact on their relationship with their
friends, while 19 youth were indifferent about social media having an impact on their relationship
with family and 11 were indifferent about impact on their relationship with their friends, while 49
youth felt that social media has had no impact on their relationship with family and 40 felt it has
had any impact on their relationship with their friends across all age groups. In this connection
reference is made to Fig. 6 and Question No 4 (c) and (d) of the questionnaire.
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
VERYINTIMATE
GOOD
FRIENDS
FAIRRELATION
AVERAGERELATION
NORELATION
REJECTION
DISHEARTEN
ED
RECIPROCAT
E
DOESNOT
MATTER
RELATION WITH ONLINE
FRIENDS
REAC TION TO NOT GET T IN G
"LIKE"
AGE 15 TO
17
AGE 18 TO
20
AGE 21 TO
25
Fig. 7
(a) Out of a sample size of 100; 06 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years
felt they have very intimate relations with their online friends, 17 in the age

12
group 18 to 20 years felt they have very intimate relations with their online friends
whereas none felt they have very intimate relations with their online friends in the age
group 21 to 25 years.
(b) Out of a sample size of 100; 49 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years felt they
have good relations with their online friends, 50 in the age group 18 to 20 years felt
they have good relations with their online friends whereas 44 felt they have good
relations with their online friends in the age group 21 to 25 years.
(c) Out of a sample size of 100; 25 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years felt they have
fair relations with their online friends, 17 in the age group 18 to 20 years felt they have fair
relations with their online friends whereas 20 felt they have fair relations with their online
friends in the age group 21 to 25 years.
(d) Out of a sample size of 100; 05 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years felt they
have average relations with their online friends, 17 in the age group 18 to 20 years felt
they have average relations with their online friends whereas 32 felt they have average
relations with their online friends in the age group 21 to 25 years.
(e) Out of a sample size of 100; 14 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years felt they
do not have any relations with their online friends, none in the age group 18 to 20 years
felt they have any relations with their online friends whereas 04 felt they do not have
any relations with their online friends in the age group 21 to 25 years.
(f) Out of a sample size of 100; 03 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years felt rejected
on not getting a “like” from their online friends, 25 in the age group 18 to 20 years felt
rejected on not getting a “like” from their online friends whereas none felt rejected on
not getting a “like” from their online friends in the age group 21 to 25 years.
(g) Out of a sample size of 100; 06 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years felt
disheartened on not getting a “like” from their online friends, 33 in the age group 18 to
20 years felt disheartened on not getting a “like” from their online friends whereas 08
felt disheartened on not getting a “like” from their online friends in the age group 21 to
25 years.
(h) Out of a sample size of 100; 13 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years
reciprocated on not getting a “like” from their online friends, 25 in the age group 18 to
20 years reciprocated on not getting a “like” from their online friends whereas 04
reciprocated on not getting a “like” from their online friends in the age group 21 to 25
years.
(i) Out of a sample size of 100; 78 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years did not
feel effected on not getting a “like” from their online friends, 17 in the age group 18 to
20 years did not feel effected on not getting a “like” from their online friends whereas
88 did not feel effected on not getting a “like” from their online friends in the age group
21 to 25 years.
Deduction. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 06 youth felt that they have intimate relations
with their online friends, 48 felt that they have good relations with their online friends, 23 felt that
they have fair relations with their online friends, 13 felt that they have average relations with their
online friends, while 10 felt that they

13
have no relations with their online friends across all age groups. In this connection reference
is made to Fig. 7 and Question No 4 (e) and (h) of the questionnaire.
Influence of Social Media on Daily Routine - Exercise Pattern, Hobbies, Job Search and
Food Habits
34. Youth today spends disproportionate amount of time online; visiting social media sites,
chatting, researching on the internet etc. Social media has made inroads in the daily lives of
Indian youth. However, false information can lead the education system to failure, while a
wrong advertisement will affect the productivity in an organisation, invade peoples’ privacy
and some useless blogs can influence youth to become violent and take some inappropriate
actions.
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
STRONGLY
AGREEE
AGREE
NEUTRAL
DISAGREE
STRONGLY
DISAGREE
STRONGLY
AGREEE
AGREE
NEUTRAL
DISAGREE
STRONGLY
DISAGREESTRONGLY
AGREEE
AGREE
NEUTRAL
DISAGREE
STRONGLY
DISAGREESTRONGLY
AGREEE
AGREE
NEUTRAL
DISAGREE
STRONGLY
DISAGREE
FITNESS HOBBIES
JOB
SEARCH
DIE
T
AGE 15 TO
17
AGE 18 TO
20
AGE 21 TO
25
Fig. 8
(a) Out of a sample size of 100; 17 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years and
18 to 20 years and 04 in the age group 21 to 25 years strongly agree that social media
influences their selection of fitness activity.
(b) Out of a sample size of 100; 22 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, none in
age group 18 to 20 years and 28 in the age group 21 to 25 years agree that social media
influences their selection of fitness activity.
(c) Out of a sample size of 100; 35 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 42
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 44 in the age group 21 to 25 years are neutral
towards influence of social media in their selection of fitness activity.
(d) Out of a sample size of 100; 16 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 33
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 20 in the age group 21 to 25 years disagree about
the influence of social media in their selection of fitness activity.
(e) Out of a sample size of 100; 10 youth each in the age group 15 to 17
years, 08 in the age group 18 to 20 years and 04 in the age group 21 to 25

14
years strongly disagree about the influence of social media in their selection of fitness
activity.
(f) Out of a sample size of 100; 22 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 25
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 20 in the age group 21 to 25 years strongly agree
about the influence of social media in their selection of their hobbies.
(g) Out of a sample size of 100; 21 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 08
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 20 in the age group 21 to 25 years agree about the
influence of social media in their selection of their hobbies.
(h) Out of a sample size of 100; 30 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 33
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 40 in the age group 21 to 25 years are neutral about
the influence of social media in their selection of their hobbies.
(i) Out of a sample size of 100; 21 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 33
the influence of social media in their selection of their hobbies.
(j) Out of a sample size of 100; 06 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, none
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 12 in the age group 21 to 25 years strongly disagree
about the influence of social media in their selection of their hobbies.
(k) Out of a sample size of 100; 13 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 17
about the influence of social media in their selection of jobs.
(l) Out of a sample size of 100; 14 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 17
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 24 in the age group 21 to 25 years agree about the
influence of social media in their selection of jobs.
(m) Out of a sample size of 100; 46 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 50
the influence of social media in their selection of jobs.
(n) Out of a sample size of 100; 13 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 17
the influence of social media in their selection of jobs.
(o) Out of a sample size of 100; 14 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, none
about the influence of social media in their selection of jobs.
(p) Out of a sample size of 100; 22 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, none
about the influence of social media in their taking of healthy diet information.
(q) Out of a sample size of 100; 29 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 67
the influence of social media in their taking of healthy diet information.

15
(r) Out of a sample size of 100; 19 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 17
the influence of social media in their taking of healthy diet information.
(s) Out of a sample size of 100; 10 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 17
about the influence of social media in their taking of healthy diet information.
Deduction. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 14 youth strongly agree with the influence
of social media in the selection of fitness activity, 22 strongly agree with the influence of social
media in selection of hobbies, 14 strongly agree with the influence of social media in selection of
jobs and 16 strongly agree with influence of social media in taking healthy diet information. Out
of a sample size of 100; an average of 21 youth agree with the influence of social media in the
selection of fitness activity,
19 agree with the influence of social media in selection of hobbies, 17 agree with the influence
of social media in selection of jobs and 19 agree with influence of social media in taking healthy
diet information. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of
38 youth were neutral about the influence of social media in the selection of fitness activity,
33 were neutral about the influence of social media in selection of hobbies, 46 were neutral
about the influence of social media in selection of jobs and 37 were neutral about the influence
of social media in taking healthy diet information. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of
19 youth disagree with the influence of social media in the selection of fitness activity, 19
disagree with the influence of social media in selection of hobbies, 13 disagree with the
influence of social media in selection of jobs and 17 disagree with influence of social media in
taking healthy diet information. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 08 youth strongly
disagree with the influence of social media in the selection of fitness activity, 07 strongly
disagree with the influence of social media in selection of hobbies, 10 strongly disagree with
the influence of social media in selection of jobs and 11 strongly disagree with influence of
social media in taking healthy diet information across all age groups. In this connection
reference is made to Fig. 8 and Question No 4 (f) of the questionnaire.
Influence of Social Media on Lifestyle
37. Youth today visit social media sites to notice advertisements of various brands and products,
purchase of products/services promoted by Facebook fan pages, influence the way one dresses up,
influence in selecting fashion trends and styles, watch beauty idea or a style tip tutorial or even
look for a chic restaurant or a star hotel.

16
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
STRONGLY
AGREEEAGREENEUTRALDISAGREESTRONGLYDISAGRE
E
STRONGLY
AGREEEAGREENEUT
RALDISAGREESTRO
NGLYDISAGREE
STRONGLY
AGREEEAGREENEU
TRALDISAGREESTR
ONGLYDISAGREE
STRONGLY
AGREEEAGREENEU
TRALDISAGREESTR
ONGLYDISAGREE
STRONGLY
AGREEEAGREENEU
TRALDISAGREESTR
ONGLYDISAGREE
STRONGLY
AGREEEAGREENEUT
RALDISAGREESTRON
GLYDISAGREE
ADER TISEM E
NT PRODU C T DRESSING FASHIO N STYLE TIPS EATERIES
PURCHASE
AG
E 15
T
O
17
AG
E 18
T
O
20
AG
E 21
T
O
25
Fig. 9
(a) Out of a sample size of 100; 17 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 25 in the
age group 18 to 20 years and 36 in the age group 21 to 25 years strongly agree with the
influence of advertisements on social media.
(b) Out of a sample size of 100; 30 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 25 in age
group 18 to 20 years and 20 in the age group 21 to 25 years agree with the influence of
advertisements on social media.
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 28 in the age group 21 to 25 years are neutral
towards influence of advertisements on social media.
the influence of advertisements on social media.
(e) Out of a sample size of 100; 13 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, none in
the age group 18 to 20 years and 04 in the age group 21 to 25 years strongly disagree about
the influence of advertisements on social media.
(f) Out of a sample size of 100; 03 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 25 in the
age group 18 to 20 years and 04 in the age group 21 to 25 years strongly agree with the
influence of social media in purchase of products/services.
(g) Out of a sample size of 100; 11 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 08 in age
social media in purchase of products/services.
(h) Out of a sample size of 100; 21 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 42
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 48 in the age group 21 to 25
years are neutral towards influence of social media in the purchase of product/services.

17
(i) Out of a sample size of 100; 16 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 25 in the
age group 18 to 20 years and 12 in the age group 21 to 25 years disagree about the
influence of social media in the purchase of products/services.
about the influence of social media in the way one dresses up.
(l) Out of a sample size of 100; 16 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 50 in the
age group 18 to 20 years and 16 in the age group 21 to 25 years agree with the influence
of social media in the way one dresses up.
(m) Out of a sample size of 100; 27 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 25 in age
group 18 to 20 years and 44 in the age group 21 to 25 years are neutral about the
influence of social media in the way one dresses up.
(n) Out of a sample size of 100; 24 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 08
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 24 in the age group 21 to 25 years disagree with the
influence of social media in the way one dresses up.
(o) Out of a sample size of 100; 21 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, none
about the influence of social media in the way one dresses up.
(p) Out of a sample size of 100; 21 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 17
about the influence of social media in selecting fashion trends and styles.
(q) Out of a sample size of 100; 25 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 25 in the
age group 18 to 20 years and 20 in the age group 21 to 25 years agree with the influence
of social media in selecting fashion trends and styles.
(r) Out of a sample size of 100; 25 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 42 in age
influence of social media in selecting fashion trends and styles.
(s) Out of a sample size of 100; 14 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 17
influence of social media in selecting fashion trends and styles.
(t) Out of a sample size of 100; 14 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, none
about the influence of social media in selecting fashion trends and styles.
(u) Out of a sample size of 100; 10 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 17
about the influence of social media in watching beauty idea and style tips.
(v) Out of a sample size of 100; 13 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 17 in the age
social media in watching beauty idea and style tips.

18
(w) Out of a sample size of 100; 27 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 58 in age
influence of social media in watching beauty idea and style tips.
(x) Out of a sample size of 100; 21 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 08
influence of social media in watching beauty idea and style tips.
(y) Out of a sample size of 100; 30 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, none
about the influence of social media in watching beauty idea and style tips.
(z) Out of a sample size of 100; 10 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 08
in the age group 18 to 20 years and none in the age group 21 to 25 years strongly agree
about the influence of social media in looking for a chic restaurant or eatery.
(aa) Out of a sample size of 100; 19 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 25 in the age
social media in looking for a chic restaurant or eatery.
(ab) Out of a sample size of 100; 35 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 42 in age
influence of social media in looking for a chic restaurant or eatery.
(ac) Out of a sample size of 100; 16 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 25 in
the age group 18 to 20 years and 20 in the age group 21 to 25 years disagree with the
influence of social media in looking for a chic restaurant or eatery.
(ad) Out of a sample size of 100; 21 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, none
about the influence of social media in looking for a chic restaurant or eatery.
Deduction. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 23 youth strongly agree with the influence
of advertisements on social media, 06 strongly agree with the influence of social media in purchase
of products/services, 12 strongly agree with the influence of social media in the way one dresses
up, 16 strongly agree with influence of social media in selecting fashion trends and styles, 09
strongly agree with influence of social media in watching beauty idea and style tips and 07 strongly
agree with influence of social media in looking for a chic restaurant or eatery across all age groups.
Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 27 youth agree with the influence of advertisements on
social media, 12 agree with the influence of social media in purchase of products/services, 20 agree
with the influence of social media in the way one dresses up, 24 agree with influence of social
media in selecting fashion trends and styles, 13 agree with influence of social media in watching
beauty idea and style tips and 20 agree with influence of social media in looking for a chic
restaurant or eatery across all age groups. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 26 youth were
neutral about the influence of advertisements on social media, 30 were neutral

19
about the influence of social media in purchase of products/services, 31 were neutral about the
influence of social media in the way one dresses up, 34 were neutral about the influence of social
media in selecting fashion trends and styles, 33 were neutral about the influence of social media in
watching beauty idea and style tips and 38 were neutral about the influence of social media in
looking for a chic restaurant or eatery across all age groups. Out of a sample size of 100; an average
of 15 youth disagree with the influence of advertisements on social media, 16 disagree with the
influence of social media in purchase of products/services, 22 disagree with the influence of social
media in the way one dresses up, 15 disagree with the influence of social media in selecting fashion
trends and styles, 21 disagree with the influence of social media in watching beauty idea and style
tips and 18 disagree with the influence of social media in looking for a chic restaurant or eatery
across all age groups. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 09 youth strongly disagree with
the influence of advertisements on social media, 36 strongly disagree with the influence of social
media in purchase of products/services, 15 strongly disagree with the influence of social media in
the way one dresses up, 11 strongly disagree with the influence of social media in selecting fashion
trends and styles, 24 strongly disagree with the influence of social media in watching beauty idea
and style tips and 17 strongly disagree with the influence of social media in looking for a chic
restaurant or eatery across all age groups. In this connection reference is made to Fig. 9 and
Question
No 4 (g) of the questionnaire.
Impact of Social Media
39. Emerging studies find that youth spend a considerable portion of their daily life interacting
through social media. Internet can be gainfully utilized to not only extend your friendships with
your friends, gain knowledge of romance, social status, share and discuss taste in music,
television serials and movies, online videos/games, other aspects of teen culture, seek answers
to many health concerns, dieting, physical fitness, health topics that are hard to discuss with
others, such as drug use and sexual health, post ones’ creative writing or artwork done, post or
share videos or music created by oneself, organize or invite people to an event or volunteer for
a campaign, non-profit organization or charity. However, social networking can have its own
pitfalls and can adversely impact ones’ emotions and daily routine. There are youth who tend
to use Facebook/other platforms late during the night, stay logged in throughout the night,
spend one hour or more on Facebook/other platforms, are obsessed with your current and ex
friends who reconnect on Facebook/other platforms, ignore your studies for Facebook/other
platforms and the very thought of getting off Facebook makes you feel isolated & helpless.

20
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
EXTEND
FRIENDSHIP
KNOWLEDGE
OFSOCIALASPECTS
HEALTH
CONCERNS
CREATIVITY
SHAREAUDIO/
VIDEOFILES
EVENT
ORGANISATIONV
O
L
U
N
T
E
E
R
F
O
R
S
O
C
I
A
L
C
A
U
S
E
U
S
E
O
F
S
N
S
L
A
T
E
A
T
N
I
G
H
T
R
E
M
A
I
N
L
O
G
G
E
D
I
N
A
T
N
I
G
H
T
U
S
E
S
N
S
M
O
R
E
T
H
A
N
O
N
E
H
O
U
R
O
B
S
E
S
S
E
D
W
I
T
H
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
IGNORESTUDIES
SNSADDICTION
SOCIAL MEDIA HELPS IN
EMOTIONAL
IMPACT
AGE 15 TO
17
AGE 18 TO
20
AGE 21 TO
25
Fig. 10
age group 18 to 20 years and 56 in the age group 21 to 25 years would use social media
helps in extending their friendship.
group 18 to 20 years and 64 in the age group 21 to 25 years used social media to gain
knowledge about social aspects.
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 32 in the age group 21 to 25 years used social media
to gain information about various health related issues in the growing up years.
to post and share ones’ creativity/art work.
(e) Out of a sample size of 100; 32 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 58
to share audio/video files created by them.
age group 18 to 20 years and 52 in the age group 21 to 25 years used social media to
organize events.
group 18 to 20 years and 24 in the age group 21 to 25 years used social media to
volunteer for a social cause.
(h) Out of a sample size of 100; 33 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 67 in the
age group 18 to 20 years and 48 in the age group 21 to 25 years would use SNS late at
night.
(i) Out of a sample size of 100; 11 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 50 in age
group 18 to 20 years and 32 in the age group 21 to 25 years would
remain logged in at night.

21
(j) Out of a sample size of 100; 57 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 75
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 68 in the age group 21 to 25 years would use SNS
for one hour or more.
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 20 in the age group 21 to 25 years are obsessed with
their current and ex friends who reconnect on Facebook/other platforms.
(l) Out of a sample size of 100; 13 youth each in the age group 15 to 17 years, 50
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 12 in the age group 21 to 25 years ignore your
studies for Facebook/other platforms.
(m) Out of a sample size of 100; 11 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 42 in the
age group 18 to 20 years and 12 in the age group 21 to 25 years would feel isolated and
helpless at the very thought of getting off Facebook/other platforms.
Deduction. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 68 youth made use of social media to
extend their friendship, 61 utilized social media to gain knowledge about various social aspects,
33 used social media to gain information about various health related issues in the growing up
years, 50 utilized social media to post and share ones’ creativity/art work, 38 used social media
to share audio/video files created by them, 37 utilized social media to organize events and 30
used social media to volunteer for a campaign, non-profit organization or charity across all age
groups. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 41 would use SNS late at night, 21 remain
logged in at night, 62 used SNS for one hour or more, 19 were obsessed with their current and
ex friends who reconnect on Facebook/other platforms, 17 ignored their studies for
Facebook/other platforms and 15 felt isolated and helpless at the very thought of getting off
Facebook/other platforms across all age groups. In this connection reference is made to Fig.
10 and Question No 4 (i) and (j) of the questionnaire.
Risks Associatedwith Use of Social Media
While on one hand social media has enhanced connectivity and growth of youth, it also has
potential to expose them to the various risks associated with the use of social media to include
peer rejection and feeling lack of close friends, often feeling sad or unhappy and bored, getting
into fights, taunting or teasing, facing emotional distress on receiving threatening, harassing,
or humiliating communication from another teen, regretted after sending a text message,
sending/receiving nonstop text messages or posting cruel comments on a boyfriend’s or
girlfriend’s Facebook page, receiving text messages constantly by a partner to find out where
they are, what they are doing, or who they are with, do not bother to read websites’ privacy
policies or be aware about the risk of disclosing information to third parties like advertisers, do
not worry about posting personal information and feel it is safe to post personal information,
including photos, online to a public profile.

22
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
PEERREJECTION
DEPRESSION
CYBER
BULLYING
EMOTIONAL
DISTRESS
REGRET
AFTERSENDINGMESSAGE
SENT/RECEIVED
CRUELCOMMENTS
SEEKING
CONSTANTUPDATES
UNAWAREOF
PRIVACYPOLICIES
POSTPERSOALINFORMATION
RISK ASSESSMENT
AGE 15 TO
17
AGE 18 TO
20
AGE 21 TO
25
Fig. 11
age group 18 to 20 years and 24 in the age group 21 to 25 years had faced peer rejection
and felt lack of close friends.
group 18 to 20 years and 40 in the age group 21 to 25 years often felt sad or unhappy
and bored.
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 24 in the age group 21 to 25 years got into fights,
taunting or teasing.
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 20 in the age group 21 to 25 years faced emotional
distress on receiving threatening, harassing, or humiliating communication from
another teen.
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 32 in the age group 21 to 25 years regretted after
sending a text message.
age group 18 to 20 years and 16 in the age group 21 to 25 years sent/received nonstop
text messages or posted cruel comments on a boyfriend’s or girlfriend’s Facebook page.
group 18 to 20 years and 16 in the age group 21 to 25 years received text messages
constantly from a partner to find out where they are, what they are doing, or who they
are with.
(h) Out of a sample size of 100; 29 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 42 in the
age group 18 to 20 years and 16 in the age group 21 to 25 years did not bother to read
websites’ privacy policies or be aware about the risk of
disclosing information to third parties like advertisers.

23
(i) Out of a sample size of 100; 16 youth in the age group 15 to 17 years, 42 in age
group 18 to 20 years and 20 in the age group 21 to 25 years did not worry about posting
personal information and feel it is safe to post personal information, including photos,
online to a public profile.
Deduction. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 19 youth had faced peer rejection and
felt lack of close friends, 35 often felt sad or unhappy and bored, 24 got into fights, taunting or
teasing – cyber bullying, 17 faced emotional distress on receiving threatening, harassing, or
humiliating communication from another teen, 35 regretted after sending a text message, 12
sent/received nonstop text messages or posted cruel comments on a boyfriend’s or girlfriend’s
Facebook page, 13 received text messages constantly from a partner to find out where they are,
what they are doing, or who they are with, 27 did not bother to read websites’ privacy policies
or be aware about the risk of disclosing information to third parties like advertisers and 20 did
not worry about posting personal information and feel it is safe to post personal information,
including photos, online to a public profile across all age groups. In this connection reference
is made to Fig. 11 and Question No 4 (k) of the questionnaire.
Impact of Social Media on Personal Space
Youth keeps themselves updated and informed about various happenings around them and form
opinions and make judgements on various issues through the use of social media. Internet and rapid
digitalization has impacted every aspect of their lives across all age groups so much so a few may
have a constant urge for human interaction through Facebook/Twitter, a few may get excited to
receive a message on
Facebook/Twitter and makes them feel as if someone likes and is interested in “me”, a few
may tend to access social networking websites/applications first thing in the morning and last
thing at night, a few may even loose track of time and get absorbed in different world while
using social networking sites, while a few may spend too much time on social networking
thereby denying themselves time for physical activity or a few may be spending too much time
on social networking upsetting your mental health.
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
URGETO
CONNECT
EXCITED
BYSNS
STAY
CONNECT
LOOSE
TRACK
OFTIME
AFFECT
PHYSICALHEA
LTH
AFFECT
MENTALHEALT
H
AGE 15 TO
17
AGE 18 TO
20
AGE 21 TO
25
Fig. 12

24
age group 18 to 20 years and 28 in the age group 21 to 25 years have a constant urge
for human interaction through Facebook/Twitter.
group 18 to 20 years and 32 in the age group 21 to 25 years get excited to receive a
message on Facebook/Twitter and makes them feel as if someone likes and is interested
in “me”.
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 48 in the age group 21 to 25 years tend to access
social networking websites/applications first thing in the morning and last thing at
night.
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 28 in the age group 21 to 25 years loose track of
time and get absorbed in different world while using social networking sites.
in the age group 18 to 20 years and 60 in the age group 21 to 25 years spend too much
time on social networking thereby denying themselves time for physical activity.
age group 18 to 20 years and 40 in the age group 21 to 25 years spend too much time
on social networking upsetting your mental health.
Deduction. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 27 youth had a constant urge for human
interaction through Facebook/Twitter, 25 got excited to receive a message on Facebook/Twitter
and makes them feel as if someone likes and is interested in “me”, 42 accessed social
networking websites/applications first thing in the morning and last thing at night, 47 lost track
of time and get absorbed in different world while using social networking sites, 47 spent too
much time on social networking thereby denying themselves time for physical activity and 37
spent too much time on social networking upsetting your mental health across all age groups.
In this connection reference is made to Fig. 12 and Question No 4 (l), (m), (n), (o), (r) and
(s) of the questionnaire.
Social Media and SNS – A Passing Phase or a Way of Life
India has been on the forefront of the digital revolution and will be second largest internet user.
It has eclipsed all facets of our lives. Yet it would be interesting to know if social networking
is a way of life or just a passing phase for our urban youth in Ahmedabad.

25
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
AGE 15 TO
17
AGE 18 TO
20
AGE 21 TO
25
0
SNS IS A WAY OF LIFE SNS IS A PASSING PHASE
Fig. 13
age group 18 to 20 years and 36 in the age group 21 to 25 years consider SNS as a way
of life.
group 18 to 20 years and 76 in the age group 21 to 25 years feel SNS is a passing phase.
Deduction. Out of a sample size of 100; an average of 38 youth feel that SNS is a way of life
as compared to 65 who feel that SNS is a passing phase across all age groups. In this
connection reference is made to Fig. 13 and Question No4 (p) and (q) of the questionnaire.
Recommendations & Suggestions
Based on the findings of the research, certain recommendations and suggestions about
awareness and engagement by parents and caregivers are enunciated for consideration as
under:-
(a) Education about social media and the ways to use it, common risks, help
understand and navigate the technologies.
(b) Share concern about online safety, sharing of personal information and photos,
information/pictures via the internet.
(c) Knowledge about incidence of public online profiles and talking or meeting
people one only knows from online.
(d) Availability of greater resources at schools, libraries and community
organizations to help them adopt risk management strategies and provide education
about online safety issues.
(e) Availability of mental health professionals and social services to work with
teens to extend expertise about online spaces and identify at-risk youth and intervene
before risky behaviour results in negative outcomes.
(f) Medical and mental health providers for routine screenings of teens to assess
their risk for depression due to social media use.
(g) Availability of updated media literacy guidelines in schools to include explicit
information on successful participation with new media forms, online

26
risks, and education about consequences of their media use, including laws that pertain
to them.
(h) Help by adults to think about online presence in moral and ethical ways -specifically
to understand the consequences for themselves and others of participation in the socially
networked world.
Scope for Further Research
Youth is likely to be increasingly dependent upon interactive media for exchange of thoughts
and information. However, the changing lifestyle in todays’ society leaves them with very little
scope in terms of time and is bound to affect them emotionally and psychologically, be it in a
positive or in a negative manner. In view of vast scope of the subject under research, it is felt
imperative that a more exhaustive research on a larger scale be carried out to understand the
actual impact of this phenomenon and also predict future effects on the coming generations.
Conclusion
Majority of the hypothesis framed for carrying out the current research has been validated by
the deductions drawn from the analysed data. However, some of the findings of the research
are not upholding the hypothesis and hence included either as recommendations or framework
of further research. Analysis of major deductions with reference to the hypothesis of this paper
is given in succeeding paragraphs;
(a) Hypothesis 1. There is an easy availability of digital platform and social
media across all age groups. The deductions support the hypothesis with research data
substantiating that 100% youth today, without exception, use Internet and SNS, for
various purposes, with wide spread availability of digital platform. All respondents used
two types of digital devices on an average and have access to two or more devices
available. All respondents have adequate knowledge of computers and its varied uses;
with an individual, on an average, using more than six different kinds of SNS portals.
Maximum use of Internet is for the purpose of studies ie 86% while 81% used Internet
for accessing SNS. Significant conclusion from the data is the fact that use of SNS
increases with age ie from 78% in age group of 15 to 17 years to 84% in 21 to 25 years
age group.
(b) Hypothesis 2. Changes in lifestyle of youth is affecting their physical and
emotional development. The hypothesis is validated by the data with an average youth of
today having less than three hours of free quality time to spend with his family and friends,
which is foundation of emotional / social development. On an average todays’ youth spends
upto nine hours in academic pursuits like attending classes, coaching/tuitions, internship,
etc and spends less than two hours per day on physical activities/ games. Couple with that
an average three hours spend on using Internet eats into the time available for rest, social
interaction, physical activities, etc. The trend of spending time using SNS increases with
age as seen from data; the average time increases from two hours in 15 to 17 years age
group to five and a half hours used up in 21 to 25 years age group. The emotional factor of
its impact can also be gauged from

27
the type of friendship shared by the respondents with online friends. Overall
48% felt online friends were ‘Good Friends’, 6% categorized them as ‘Very Intimate’;
which was more common in age group of 18 to 20 years as 50% felt they were ‘Good
Friends’ while 17% classified them as ‘Very Intimate’. In depth analysis of this
particular set of data also bring out the emotional attachment with online friends based
on their reaction to not getting adequate “likes” from their online friends. In age group
on 18 to 20 years 25% felt rejected whereas 33% felt disheartened on not getting likes.
While overall the data came to 5% feeling rejected with 10% feeling disheartened, with
most respondents ie 73% felt it did not matter. Hence, it can be safely concluded that
degree of closeness with online friends effects the emotional attachment.
(c) Hypothesis 3. Social Networking Sites (SNS) have become an attractive
option due to changes in levelof interpersonal interaction in an average household.
The factor of emotional growth is further corroborated by the changes in friendship
trends as seen by the data. An average youth has more virtual or online friends than
physical friends ie overall 44% has 10 to 15 physical friends while 46% have 50 to 100
online friends. The trend is more prominent with increase in age. While 35% in age
group of 15 to 17 years have more than 25 physical friends it decreases to 20% in 21 to
25 years group. Conversely, almost 43% in age group of 15 to 17 years have less than
50 online friends while 68% in age group 21 to 25 years have 50 to 100 online friends.
The net also influences the choices of the users and has become a major attractive
alternative for physical interpersonal relations. Analysis of data reveals that information
available on net is impacting on users’ choices eg 35% agreed that social media
influence their fitness routine while only 27% disagreed, similarly choice of hobbies of
41% were influenced by it as well as 35% used it to get information about diet. Lifestyle
of 50% was affected by advertisements on social media. This trend of enhanced
influence of SNS is more prominent in age group of 18 to 20 years (refer paragraphs 34
to 40 of this report) maybe because of the transitory age when the individuals move
from restrictive regime of school education to more exploratory environments of higher
studies.
(d) Hypothesis 4. Increased usage of SNS is adversely impacting the social
growth of an average Indian youth. This hypothesis is not fully validated by data of
this research as most respondents exhibited no major effect on their relationship with
family or friends. Overall 49% respondents said that use of SNS had no effect on the
relationship with their families while as far as relations with friends are concerned the
views were equally divided. While 40% respondents were of view that use of SNS had
no effect, 43% felt it had positive effects. Only 12% felt SNS had negative effect on
relations with family while 6% felt its negative effect on relations with friends.
While most of assumptions of this research are supported by the analysis of data, the basic
premise that SNS adversely affects relations within family and social behaviour is negated.
Hypothesis 1 to 3 is validated by the sample provided however, hypothesis 4 is only partially
validated and hence included in the recommendations of this research paper.

28
India has been in the forefront of the digital revolution and use of social media. The use of
social media by the young generation in India is increasing rapidly, raising a number of
questions and controversies about the effects of SNS on adolescent development. This research
paper has attempted to examine the issues of usage of SNS and their effects on the social
behaviour and adaptation of urban Indian youth with special reference to the youth of
Ahmedabad and put forth relevant recommendations.
Bibliography and References:
(a) Siddiqui, S. & Singh, T. (2016). Social Media its Impact with Positive and Negative
Aspects. International Journal of Computer Applications Technology and Research, 5(2), 71-
75, retrieved from www.ijcat.com
(b) Ahn, J. (2011). The Effect of Social Networking Sites on Adolescents’ Social and
Academic Development: Current Theories and Controversies. Journal of the Association for
Information Science and Technology, 62(8), 1435–1445, retrieved from
www.onlinelibrary.wiley.com
(c) Dr Neelamalar, M. & Chitra. P. (2009). New Media and Society: A Study on the Impact
of Social Networking Sites on Indian Youth. Communication Studies. 6. 125-145, retrieved
from www.ec.ubi.pt/ec/06/index.html
(d) Manjunatha, S. (2013). The Usage of Social Networking sites Among the College
Students in India. International Research Journal of Social Sciences, 2(5), 15-21, retrieved from
www.isca.in
(e) Nair, R.P. (2015, November 18). India to have the second largest internet user base in
the world by December 2015: Report, retrieved from yourstory.com/2015/11/india-internet-
user-base-2015.
****The End****

Use of Social Media by Urban Indian Youth and its impact on Social Behavior

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