By Suleiman Tajudeen
CITIZENS COMPASS– Social media refers to online platform tools that allow users to create, share, and interact with content information or other users in a virtual environment. The most popular social media particularly in Nigeria are Facebook, Instagram, twitter, WhatsApp, TikTok and many others.
It has become an integral part of the lives of secondary school students in Nigeria. While social media has its benefits, such as connecting with friends and family, accessing information, and self-expression, it also has several psychosocial effects on students regardless of their location.
Prevalence of social media use among secondary school students in Nigeria
A study conducted recently by the Nigerian communication commission (NCC) found that:
71 per cent of Nigerian youth ages (15-24) use social media.
45 per cent of Nigerian youth use social media for over 4-6 hours in a day.
Causes of Social Media Abuse among secondary school students
Several factors contribute to social media abuse among secondary school students in Nigeria, including:
Lack of parental guidance: Many parents are not actively involved in monitoring their children’s social media activities.
Easy access to smart-phones and internet: The widespread availability of smart-phones and internet access has made it easier for students to access social media.
Peergroup: Students may feel pressure from their peers to engage in social media activities, including cyberbullying and online harassment.
Lack of education and awareness: Many students are not aware of the potential risks and consequences of social media abuse.
Mental health issues: Students with underlying mental health issues, such as anti-social personality disorder, anxiety and depression, may be more susceptible to social media abuse.
Advantages of social media
It improved communication and socialization.
Access to educational resources is made possible e.g. (online tutorials and educational videos).
Self expression and creativity.
It could boost academic performance in Schools.
Networking opportunities (e.g. it encourages online learning).
Information sharing and awareness (i.e. easy connection with professionals and peers).
Foster innovation and learning.
Medium of entertainment.
Challenges of social media
Cyberbullying and online harassment.
Addiction and distraction from academic activities.
Sleep deprivation and physical activity.
Unrealistic comparison and low self esteem.
Exposure to explicit content and online predators (i.e. pornography materials).
It could lead to mental health problems like depression and anxiety etc.
Social isolation and decrease in face to face interaction.
Decreased in attention span and cognitive skills.
General exposure of young people to inappropriate content.
False information are easily spread through social media.
Prevention strategies
To prevent social media abuse among secondary school students in Nigeria, the following strategies can be implemented:
Parental involvement: Parents should be actively involved in monitoring their children’s social media activities and providing guidance on responsible social media use.
Education and awareness: Schools and educators should provide education and awareness programs on social media safety, cyberbullying, and online harassment.
School policies: Schools should
To be continued…
Dr Suleiman Tajudeen, CEO and Director of Clinical Psychology, Clear Mind Psychological Consult, KM 12,Ojo, Lagos State.
(+234) 0803 402 4457
