EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS ON INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS

ABSTRACT

The study is focused on the Effects Of Social Media Platforms On Interpersonal Relationships, Using Undergraduate Students Of Ekehuan Campus, University Of Benin As A Study. The objectives of the study were to ascertain the role of social media platforms in building interpersonal relationships amongst undergraduate students of Ekehuan Campus, UNIBEN, evaluate the attitude of undergraduate students of Ekehuan campus, UNIBEN, towards social media platforms in creating interpersonal relationships, investigate the effects of social media platforms on interpersonal relationships amongst undergraduate students of Ekehuan Campus, UNIBEN. For its methodology, the survey research method was used to gather the data used for the study. Findings of the study revealed that Students of UNIBEN are not sure whether there are psychological, cultural and social meaning attached to social media platforms in creating interpersonal relationships. The findings also indicated that exposure to social media does not influence how Uniben students interact with others, however, there are negative effects from interactions initiated. The researcher concluded that misinformation and loneliness are some of the negative effects of social media on interpersonal relationship. It was recommended among other things that efforts should be made to curb false information that can affect relationships negatively. Similarly, it was recommended that programmes should be put in place to encourage physical interaction amongst students. The researcher also recommended that students should focus on communicating and creating a positive interpersonal relationship through person to person interaction rather than using the social media more.