THE IMPACT AND POTENTIAL RISKS OF THE INTERNET AND SOCIAL NETWORKS ON YOUTH AWARENESS
Keywords:
Internet, social networks, youth, media literacy, psychological impact, digital communication, information security, cyber risks.Abstract
The rapid development of the Internet and social networks has made them an integral part of modern society, especially influencing the worldview, psychological state, and social behavior of young people. While digital platforms provide new opportunities for education, communication, and self-expression, excessive or uncontrolled use may lead to negative consequences such as psychological dependency, anxiety, decreased real-life social interaction, and susceptibility to misinformation and manipulative content. This article examines the positive and negative effects of the Internet and social media on the consciousness of youth, and analyzes the risks associated with their influence. The study highlights the importance of media literacy, mental resilience, and the role of families, educational institutions, and government policies in ensuring safe and responsible usage of digital platforms. Effective strategies for reducing online risks and enhancing digital culture among youth are also discussed
