• Raj Kapse
• Rachana Shevale
• Rahul Atpadkar
• Riya Patil
• H.R.Kulkarni,Divya Girase

Social media has become an integral part of youth life worldwide. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and Facebook are central to self-expression, peer interactions, and cultural trends. This research investigates the influence of social media on youth culture and identity through a qualitative analysis of 20 scholarly studies from both global and Indian contexts. Key findings suggest that social media fosters creativity, global cultural awareness, and networking opportunities, while also contributing to peer pressure, identity confusion, and mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. The study adopts the Participation–Engagement–Impact (PEI) framework, using secondary sources and expert commentaries to evaluate outcomes across multiple dimensions: identity construction, cultural hybridization, mental health, and career opportunities. Results indicate that balanced usage combined with digital literacy programs can maximize positive effects, while excessive or unmonitored usage can intensify risks. Recommendations include integrating digital literacy in education, promoting responsible usage, enhancing parental and institutional guidance, and encouraging youth-led initiatives for learning and creativity. The paper synthesizes existing research, identifies gaps, and suggests areas for future citizen-focused studies. Social media is thus neither inherently positive nor negative; its impact depends on usage patterns, educational interventions, and policy frameworks.

The Influence Of Social Media On Youth Culture And Identity

"The Influence Of Social Media On Youth Culture And Identity", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 1, page no.372-383, January-2026, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIRHG06037.pdf

"The Influence Of Social Media On Youth Culture And Identity", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 1, page no. pp372-383, January-2026, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIRHG06037.pdf