SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE AND BEHAVIOURAL PATTERN OF TEENAGERS

The aim of the study was to assess Social Media Usage and Behavioural Pattern of Teenagers (A Study of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area). The objectives of the study were, to find out the extent teenagers in Itu local government area are exposed to social media, find out why teenagers in Itu local government are using social media. Establish how social media use influence the behavioural patterns of teenagers in Itu local government area and also assess the influence of social media use on the behaviourial patterns of teenagers in Itu local government area. Social learning theory and cultivation theory was adopted to guide the study. Survey research design was designed was used. Using questionnaire as instrument for data collection, a total of 398 questionnaires were collected from respondents for analysis. Findings revealed that all teenagers in Itu LGA are often exposed to social media. Findings also revealed that socializing with friends and entertainment are primary reasons for social media use. The study recommended that educational initiatives be developed to raise awareness among teenagers in Itu LGA about responsible social media usage, focusing on the potential impact of negative content and cyberbullying. It was also recommended that, parents and guardians actively engage in discussions with teenagers to better understand their social media behaviors and provide guidance on responsible online engagement.