THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF STUDENT, A CASE STUDY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN

ABSTRACT

The study investigated the impact of social media on the mental health of University of Benin students. The objective of this study was to investigate and highlight the impact of social media on the mental health of University of Benin students. The research questions asked to achieve the objective of the study were as follows; does the use of social media sites have any impact on undergraduate student’s academic performance in the University of Benin, Benin City, what are the benefits undergraduate students derive from using social media in the University of Benin, Benin City, why do undergraduate students visit their social media sites in the University of Benin, Benin City and what is the level of social media addiction amongst undergraduate students in the University of Benin, Benin City. The sample size was 218 participants chosen from the study population using the Proportionate Stratified Random Sampling, the research instrument utilized was the questionnaire. Conclusion drawn from the analysis of the data retrieved from the questionnaire indicates that This study investigate social media and its impacts on the mental health of University students, using the University of Benin as a case study. Due to the negative impact of social media on student’s life, such as ineffective studies, poor academic performance and the general mental health status, putting effective measures in place is pertinent to their academic success and general life. This was done by identifying the major ways social media could affect a student’s mental health and finding the appropriate remedy, based on the analysis made, this thesis will be of great help in helping students to have an excellent academic life. Recommendations were made based on the findings and they include: Based on the findings of the study which indicated a relationship between social media and the mental health of University of Benin students. It is recommended that universities should provide a conducive environment by improving on enough hostels, classrooms, and reading materials for effective learning and interpersonal relationship. The findings of the study show that mental health has a relationship with the academic performance of students. It is therefore recommended that university should organize programs on how to read and source for materials online, develop coping skills and put these skills into practical use.