EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTION AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS

Abstract

The proliferation of social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and WhatsApp has significantly transformed the way college students communicate, learn, and engage with the world. While social media offers numerous benefits, including increased connectivity, access to information, and opportunities for academic collaboration, its excessive use has raised concerns regarding its potential negative impact on students’ academic performance. This research paper explores the complex relationship between social media addiction and academic achievement among college students. The study examines existing literature on the subject, highlighting key findings that suggest both positive and negative effects of social media usage on academic outcomes. On one hand, social media can enhance learning experiences through educational groups, online discussions, and access to academic resources. On the other hand, excessive use often leads to distraction, reduced study time, poor time management, and decreased academic motivation, all of which can negatively affect GPA and overall academic success.

            To investigate this relationship, a survey was conducted among college students across various academic disciplines. The questionnaire assessed students’ social media habits, including the amount of time spent on different platforms, the purpose of use, and the level of addiction based on the Social Media Addiction Scale (SMAS). Academic performance was measured through self-reported GPAs, study habits, and productivity levels. The results revealed a significant negative correlation between social media addiction and academic achievement. Students who spent more than three hours daily on social media, especially those exhibiting signs of addiction, reported lower GPAs and poorer academic performance. Additionally, these students were more likely to experience distractions during study sessions and struggled with time management. Conversely, students who utilized social media primarily for academic purposes, such as participating in study groups or following educational content, demonstrated better academic outcomes.

            The findings suggest that while social media is not inherently harmful to academic performance, its addictive use can have detrimental effects. The study emphasizes the importance of promoting healthy social media habits among college students. Educational institutions can play a key role by implementing awareness programs, offering time management resources, and encouraging students to use social media purposefully for academic growth.