
This scoping review examines media literacy education interventions targeting children and adolescents in Indonesia, utilizing publications from the Garuda Indonesia database. The study aims to categorize the different types of media literacy interventions, including their methodologies, target audiences, and thematic focuses. The study identifies a diverse range of agents from various academic backgrounds conducting these interventions, ensuring a wide array of perspectives. The topics addressed include media ethics, social issues, misinformation and disinformation, media literacy competencies, and safety issues, reflecting a holistic approach to media literacy. The findings indicate that intervention designs predominantly adopt a protectionist approach, viewing children and adolescents as susceptible to media effects, with less emphasis on empowerment strategies. Traditional models such as lectures, seminars, and one-way presentations remain prevalent, though the level of audience involvement significantly impacts intervention effectiveness. This study contributes to the literature by filling the gap in existing research on media literacy interventions in Indonesia, particularly by highlighting the dominance of protectionist approaches and the limited adoption of empowerment-based strategies. The review underscores the need for future media literacy education to consider audience participation, current topics, new curriculum designs, and innovative approaches, especially in the rapidly evolving technological landscape. Limitations of the study include reliance on scholarly articles from academic communities and a focus on non-formal educational settings, underscoring the need for further research on integrating media literacy into formal education curricula. Keywords: Media literacy, interventions, children and adolescents, Indonesia, scoping review.
Short videos have become a central format in environmental communication, yet evidence on their persuasive effects on sustainable tourism behavior remains fragmented. This study provides a systematic review of short-video persuasion in sustainable tourism contexts, synthesizing theoretical approaches, mechanisms, and boundary conditions. Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched 4 databases up to September 2025, identifying 2,151 records and retaining 12 peer-reviewed journal articles for analysis. The included studies were organized into three thematic clusters: (1) short-video content features and sustainable tourism intentions (7 studies, 58.3%), (2) social media influencer effects on destination persuasion (4 studies, 33.3%), and (3) audience evaluation of sustainable tourism information (4 studies, 33.3%), with some studies addressing. Methodologically, the corpus comprised cross-sectional questionnaire surveys (7/12, 58.3%), experimental designs (3/12, 25.0%), and content analytic approaches (2/12, 16.7%). Theoretically, studies drew primarily on Persuasion Theory, Stimulus-Organism-Response Theory, Technology Acceptance Model, and Source Credibility Theory, though actual behavior was measured in only one study. Message design features,including narrative framing, emotional visual cues, and production aesthetics,demonstrated conditional positive effects on pro-environmental intentions, operating through both cognitive and affective pathways. Influencer credibility and audience–source congruence further moderated persuasive outcomes. These findings underscore the field's overreliance on intention-based outcomes and geographically concentrated samples (5/12, 41.7% from China), highlighting an unresolved intention–behavior gap. Future research should prioritize longitudinal and cross-cultural designs, behavioral outcome measurement, and platform-level perspectives to advance both theoretical integration and practical communication strategies. Keywords: short video, persuasion, sustainable communication, behavioral intention, systematic review.
The platformization of the television industry has significantly transformed content production strategies, compelling producers to adapt to digital-first environments dominated by streaming platforms such as Netflix, YouTube, and other OTT services. This study employs a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to synthesize how digital platforms reshape television content production and how producers respond to these changes. Using the PRISMA 2020 framework, the review analyzed 14 peer-reviewed articles published between 2019 and 2024, selected through a multi-phase screening and quality appraisal process. Thematic synthesis identified five recurring themes: structural adaptation, content transformation, audience engagement, economic realignment, and regulatory responses. The findings indicate that the most prominent effects of platformization occur at the structural and economic levels, followed by audience engagement and content transformation, while regulatory responses remain comparatively less explored. Content producers increasingly rely on workflow flexibility, multiplatform distribution, audience metrics, and differentiated monetization strategies to remain competitive. At the same time, they must negotiate both formal regulation and platform-based governance. This review addresses a gap in the literature by providing a more integrated understanding of how television production is being reorganized under platform conditions and by highlighting the strategic adaptations required for sustainability in a platform-driven media ecosystem. Keywords: Digital platforms, television content production, platformization, audience engagement, economic realignment.
In the digital age, social media plays a pivotal role in shaping cultural identity, particularly among youth who navigate complex intersections of globalization, cultural expression, and personal identity in online spaces. However, while social media provides a platform for identity formation, it also presents challenges, including negative behaviours and cultural misrepresentation. This systematic review investigates the impact of social media on youth cultural identity, the associated factors, and the surrounding issues. Articles from two high-quality academic databases, Scopus and Web of Science, were systematically analysed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, to identify recurring themes and trends. Criteria for exclusion and inclusion were set to ensure only primary research articles written in English were included in the review. Of all 27 studies that were screened, only 11 of them were eligible for qualitative synthesis. Findings reveal that social media affects youth cultural identity in various ways, from strengthening self-concept and cultural resilience to introducing challenges related to identity confusion and social comparison. Factors such as social media usage, social media environment, demographic characteristics, and subcultural exploration emerged as influential in identity formation, with social media usage as the most frequently discussed factor. Additionally, the review identified key issues surrounding youth cultural identity on social media, namely negative social behaviour, hybridization, lifestyle and gender. This review suggests the need for digital literacy programs targeting youth, aiming to build resilience against negative social media influences while promoting healthy identity development Keywords: Social media, youth, cultural identity, social media impact, systematic literature review.
In tandem with the rapid development and advancement of mobile technology and social media, Muslim celebrity da’ie (preachers) in social media are on the rise. Communicating religious or da’wah messages is no longer limited to preaching at the mosque, religious institutions, or through traditional media but also extended to the use of social media. The awakening of Muslim celebrity preachers has influenced social media users, who mainly consist of youths, in regard to their understanding of religious issues. The credibility and attractiveness of celebrity da’ie and their persuasive messages influence their followers’ perceptions of religious issues. While many previous studies have examined the credibility and persuasiveness of the messages posted by social media influencers, research focusing on Muslim celebrity da’ie is scarce. Therefore, this study is aimed at examining the attractiveness, trustworthiness, and credibility of Muslim celebrity da’ie on social media and social media users’ belief in the da’wah messages posted by these Muslim celebrity preachers. Using the elaboration likelihood model as a framework of this study, the researchers conducted a cross-sectional survey involving 400 respondents who followed Muslim celebrity da’ie on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, or Facebook. One sample t-test, hierarchical regression, and chi-square were utilised to analyse the data. The practical and theoretical implications of the study are discussed. The study’s findings will enrich the literature on da’wah through social media.
Amid intensifying global debates about China's role on the world stage, scholarly interest in how media construct China's national image has grown significantly. This article presents a systematic review of scholarly English-language research on the media construction of China's national image over the past decade, with a particular emphasis on framing strategies, theoretical developments, and broader research trends. Drawing on a PRISMA-based review framework, the study systematically identified and screened relevant literature published between January 2014 and March 2025, ultimately including 22 peer-reviewed journal articles for full-text analysis. The findings show that media representations of China are closely shaped by major geopolitical developments, including the COVID19 pandemic, the Belt and Road Initiative, and evolving China–US relations, which influence both framing strategies and narrative emphasis. Rather than merely reflecting events, media coverage often reinforces underlying ideological positions through selective representation. Additionally, there has been a clear shift in research paradigms from traditional perspectives such as soft power and public diplomacy towards more critical approaches, including framing theory and critical discourse analysis. However, existing research remains largely focused on Western mainstream media, with limited engagement with cross-national differences and transnational media contexts, constraining a more comprehensive understanding of how competing narratives shape global perceptions of China. While the literature has advanced knowledge of media representations, notable gaps persist in theoretical pluralism, methodological diversity, and the analysis of communicative outcomes. The article therefore calls for more comparative and context-sensitive approaches in future research on global media communication.
The 15th General Election (GE15) marked a critical moment in Malaysia’s political landscape, with mass media playing an important role in shaping electoral discourse. This study examines how selected Malaysian mainstream and independent media outlets framed key political issues during GE15, with a particular attention to corruption, governance, youth participation, and coalition politics. Using qualitative content analysis methodology, this research examines 11 purposively selected news articles published during the election period and the immediate post-election phase to capture key framing moments. By comparing these different types of media, the study shows the different viewpoints through which voters received political information. The findings suggest tendencies in framing practices rather than generalizable patterns. Comparatively, mainstream media outlets tended to emphasize themes related to political stability, continuity, and leadership competence, which aligned with established political narratives, while independent media more frequently highlighted accountability, governance failures, and necessity political change in portraying GE15. Youth participation, amplified by the implementation of the Undi18 amendments, was commonly framed as a transformative electoral force. However, these narratives often lacked detailed discussion. Furthermore, post-election reporting reflected uncertainties surrounding coalition-building and democratic governance in a divided political environment. In conclusion, this study contributes exploratory insights into how media ownership and editorial orientation may shape strategic political narratives during elections, while acknowledging the limitations of a small qualitative sample size.
In May 2021, Prasarana Malaysia Berhad faced a critical crisis when a manually operated train collided with an automated passenger train on the Kelana Jaya LRT line, injuring 213 passengers. The situation worsened due to ineffective leadership and poor communication during a press conference by then chairman Dato’ Sri Haji Tajuddin Abdul Rahman, which led to his dismissal and intensified public criticism. This study focuses on communication experts' assessments of the leadership and crisis communication management strategies demonstrated by Prasarana during the incident. Using a qualitative approach, online interviews were conducted with communication professionals to explore their evaluations of the organization’s crisis response. The findings were analysed using thematic analysis and guided by the Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT). Experts acknowledged that Prasarana’s use of the rebuild strategy, particularly compensating the victims, was appropriate and aligned with SCCT principles for handling a preventable crisis. However, they also highlighted weaknesses in leadership decisions and criticized the initial use of denial and diminishing strategies, which contradicted best practices in crisis communication and leadership accountability. This study underscores the crucial role of leadership in managing public perception and maintaining credibility during a crisis. It also emphasizes the need for aligning communication strategies with established theoretical frameworks.
International student mobility has emerged as a key feature of contemporary higher education, resulting in complex intercultural dynamics to universities worldwide. However, most existing intercultural communication frameworks currently in use are Western-centric and often fail to capture the institutional structures, religious norms, and experiences of students found in many Asian societies. Therefore, this study examines the applicability of Kim’s Cross-Cultural Adaptation Model within Malaysia’s multicultural and multireligious higher education environment, where collectivist orientations, religious norms, and institutional structures shape both students’ adaptation and staff support practices. The main objective is to explore the intercultural experiences, particularly on academic, social, and cultural adjustment processes, among international postgraduate students and academic staff across four Malaysian research universities to assess the relevance of Kim’s model. Using qualitative research, data were collected through semi-structured interviews involving 12 international postgraduate students and 12 academic staff members. Thematic analysis revealed seven additional adaptation factors that extend the model: Work Factor, Personal Factor, Academic Adaptation, Psychological Adaptation, Social Adaptation, Physical Adaptation, and Cultural Adaptation. These dimensions highlight localized challenges related to institutional practices, communication, cultural familiarity, and psychological well-being. The Institutional Factor emphasizes teaching approaches, support systems, and relational engagement, while Cultural Adaptation addresses lifestyle, values, and leisure strategies. Rather than replacing Kim’s framework, this study proposes a contextual refinement that strengthens its explanatory power for understanding intercultural adjustment in Malaysia and other culturally complex societies.
Hoaxes have been troubling the government because they often claim to be official government information or make false accusations about the government. This research aimed to analyse how government institutions respond to hoaxes, as reflected in the content of their websites. This article employs a corpus linguistic approach and uses several tools to collect data and examine issues and responses related to hoaxes through content analysis of news and press releases published on the official channels of 34 ministries between 2020 and 2022. The data analysed consisted of 1,348 news and press releases related to efforts to counter hoaxes and promote digital literacy, collected from the websites of these ministries and agencies. The research highlighted that the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (Kemenkominfo) played a dominant role in countering hoaxes, providing dedicated web pages for fact-checking. While other government organisations could counter hoaxes directed against them, they also offered counterinformation to be published on Kemenkominfo's website. However, despite their extensive public outreach, some other government organisations were not as active in countering hoaxes. Hoaxes did not seem to be their primary concern. The findings underscored the importance of digital literacy and proactive communication strategies in mitigating the impact of hoaxes and maintaining public trust in governmental institutions
This study examines the exposure to YouTube's "Dirty Vote Full Movie" on viewer satisfaction, specifically on engagement. The film, which alleges electoral fraud concerning the Indonesia's 2024 Presidential Election, achieved significant traction with 9.9 million views and generated over 73,000 comments. Employing a quantitative survey methodology, data was collected from 398 respondents selected via purposive sampling, targeting individuals who actively participated in the YouTube comment section. Viewer exposure was measured across three dimensions: frequency of viewing, duration of engagement, and level of attention paid. Satisfaction was conceptualised through five gratification needs derived from the Uses and Gratifications Theory: cognitive (information acquisition), affective (emotional experience), integrative personal (self-understanding), integrative social (social interaction), and tension release. Data gathered through online questionnaires regression, independent samples t-tests, and calculation of the coefficient of determination (R-2). The results demonstrate that exposure to Dirty Vote exerts a statistically significant positive influence on viewer satisfaction (p < 0.05), with 53% of the observed variance in satisfaction levels (R-2 = 0.046). These findings substantiate the applicability of the Uses and Gratifications Theory within the context of digital political film documentary disseminated via social platforms like YouTube. The research contributes theoretically to communication scholarship on digital audience engagement and offers insights for documentary filmmakers aiming to design effective content.
This qualitative study investigates how the Vietnamese Generation Z individuals perceive and experience artificial intelligence tools as mediators in cross-cultural communication. Adopting an interpretive phenomenological framework, the research draws on data from in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 25 Vietnamese participants aged 18-27 who reside in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to explore the complex interplay between AI-assisted translation technologies and authentic intercultural exchange. Findings reveal a fundamental tension: while AI tools dramatically lower barriers to initiating cross-cultural contact, participants consistently reported experiencing connection without understanding, technically successful exchanges that nonetheless felt emotionally hollow. Three interconnected themes emerged: paradoxical isolation despite increased connectivity, in which technical efficiency masks relational distance; cultural flattening through algorithmic mediation, which erodes distinct cultural nuances; and persistent authenticity concerns about the ownership of communication. The study contributes to communication theory by extending Communication Accommodation Theory to AI-mediated contexts, proposing that algorithmic translation creates a new form of technological convergence, distinct from traditional interpersonal accommodation. Practical implications suggest that educators and technology designers must look beyond linguistic accuracy to address the human dimensions of interaction, recommending that effective digital communication requires complementing AI tools with intentional cultural learning strategies to preserve authentic human connection.
In Malaysia, the topic about marine species conservation is scarce, combined together with a limited media coverage of this species has resulted in low awareness among the public. A minimum use of platforms by local media in informing the public about this alarming crisis has been a main problem. This study explores the function of the eco-documentary in encouraging marine life conservation awareness. It examines two eco-documentaries, produced by an international and a Malaysian production, in which both contents represent the issue of marine life extinction. Six focus group discussions were executed among three geographical areas (coastal area, rural area, and urban area) in order to determine Malaysian youth educational changes in conservation. This study found a change of information in relation to marine life pro-conservation and demonstrated positive perceptions and/or awareness in preserving life under water. This study further identifies that rhetorical emphasis on the issue’s local context fosters a heightened sense of accountability to protect the environment and reduce consumption of endangered marine species. It further cultivates a sense of responsibility to safeguard the nation’s iconic marine turtle species. In conclusion, this finding established the ecodocumentary as another provider of additional information, knowledge about threats, exposed the effects of human activities, the existence of marine protected areas (MPAs), and the richness of marine life and its species. It is important for eco-documentary to be included in the curriculum materials in changing and instilling positive perceptions of environmental sustainability among youth.
Perkembangan teknologi maklumat telah membuatkan budaya politik Melayu berkembang ke arah yang lebih aktif pada masa kini. Kehadiran media juga telah membuka ruang dan meningkatkan lagi keterlibatan masyarakat dalam arena politik negara. Dalam pada itu, kajian-kajian lepas banyak membincangkan aspek media terhadap perkembangan budaya politik. Namun begitu, terdapat kesenjangan antara kajian lepas dalam mengumpulkan bahan-bahan kajian ini secara sistematik terutamanya dalam membincangkan aspek pengaruh media terhadap perubahan budaya politik Melayu. Timbul persoalan dalam kajian ini tentang bagaimana media mempengaruhi perubahan budaya politik khususnya kepada masyarakat Melayu kontemporari. Justeru itu, adalah menjadi tujuan kajian ini untuk mengenal pasti pengaruh media terhadap pembentukan budaya politik Melayu menerusi kajian-kajian lepas yang dijalankan. Pengumpulan data kajian dilakukan secara kualitatif dengan berpandukan Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analysis (PRISMA, 2020). Data yang diperoleh kemudiannya menggunakan empat proses utama PRISMA iaitu pengenalpastian, penapisan, kelayakan dan penerimaan. Hasil dapatan kajian kemudiannya dianalisis menggunakan analisis tematik bagi mengenal pasti tema yang sesuai. Perkara ini penting untuk memastikan data yang menjurus terhadap sesebuah etnik dapat dikenal pasti dengan tepat. Dapatan kajian mendapati tiga tema tentang pengaruh media terhadap perubahan budaya politik Melayu kontemporari iaitu peralihan media maklumat, penyebaran naratif serta perbezaan pemikiran politik. Hasil kajian turut menunjukkan bahawa media memberikan kesan dualistik kepada sikap, penglibatan dan pemikiran masyarakat. Penggunaan tanpa literasi media juga akan menjejaskan budaya politik sesebuah masyarakat sekaligus menjejaskan keharmonian politik negara.
The emergence of various media service channels has caused the binge-watching phenomenon among viewers and brought adverse effects on media psychology. Various scholars have examined the Uses and Gratifications Theory (UGT) in understanding the motives of media consumption, but other motives require further examination. This study aims to examine the U&G motives (enjoyment, escapism, and social interaction) that influence the attitude and binge-watching behaviours through the extension of other motives (e.g., immersion and media appeal). The study applied quantitative research, with the use of purposive sampling to gather 280 valid responses via the online survey. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyse the data and test the hypotheses. The results corroborated that enjoyment, escapism, and media appeals were the predictors of binge-watching attitude, but social interaction and immersion were not. In addition, the attitude of binge-watching positively affects binge-watching behaviours. The study evidenced that attitude served as a mediator between the motives (enjoyment, escapism, media appeal) and bingewatching behaviour. This research contributed to the UGT and media scholarship, with evidence that media appeal (technological gratification) is a new motive. The findings of this study urge streaming services, media content producers, and governmental bodies to formulate media policies and digital literacy initiatives on binge-watching to avoid the negative media effects on the younger generations and society at large.
Political polarization on social media is becoming increasingly massive ahead of electoral contests, including in the 2024 Jakarta Regional/Gubernatorial Election. This dynamic has the potential to increase psychological stress and affect users' political mental health. This study aims to analyse how political polarization on TikTok strengthens echo chambers and impacts young voters' political mental health. With a qualitative approach, this study uses discourse analysis methods, in-depth interviews with young voters, political influencers, and political communication experts, as well as participant observation of content discussing candidate pairs number 1 (Ridwan Kamil-Suswono) and number 3 (Pramono Anung-Rano Karno). Research findings reveal systemic failure of TikTok's algorithm, which creates political polarization through structured cognitive manipulation, exploiting users' confirmation bias to maintain engagement without considering mental health impacts. The platform operates as a social fragmentation mechanism that impedes democratic deliberation, creating echo chambers that erode Indonesia's young generation's critical thinking capabilities. Findings demonstrate normalization of digital violence and political dehumanization that threatens social stability. Fundamental reform of algorithmic architecture and comprehensive regulation are required to prevent corporate exploitation of Indonesia's democratic processes, alongside the necessity for more inclusive platform policies and digital literacy strategies to foster openness toward diverse political perspectives, thereby minimizing polarization's negative impacts on society's political mental health.
This study investigates how four Malaysian online news media frame organizational perceptions of Persons with Disabilities (PwD) in the workplace, and how these narratives influence HR professionals' attitudes and practices, in comparison with international studies. The objectives are: (1) to examine how Malaysian news outlets frame PwD in relation to employment, and (2) to explore how these frames shape HR professionals' organizational responses. A qualitative case study approach was adopted, combining semi-structured interviews with five HR professionals and content analysis of PwD employment coverage in four Malaysian online news portals (2020-2025). Entman's diagnostic, prognostic, and motivational frames guided the analysis, while international framing studies from the UK, Japan, and UN disability discourse provided comparative context. Findings show that Malaysian media predominantly employ the compassion frame, portraying PwD as dependent and in need of assistance. The empowerment frame is less common but has gained visibility in recent years. HR interviews revealed that charity-oriented frames reinforce risk-averse hiring, with PwD perceived as requiring "special allowances," while empowerment frames position PwD as untapped talent aligned with diversity and corporate social responsibility agendas. Success stories and empowerment policies encourage HR leaders to consider flexible work arrangements and targeted training. International literature reflects a similar tension between compassion and empowerment narratives, though Malaysia's reliance on charity framing slows the normalization of PwD inclusion. The study contributes to organizational communication research in Southeast Asia by linking media frames with HR perceptions and workplace practices.
Organizations are increasingly relying on social media to attract attention and build engagement with online communities. Effective promotional activity required more than using the big brand and huge followers. Although social media offers an effective form of two-way communication, not all organizations understand how to make marketing strategies on social media work effectively. Therefore, this study aimed to describe public-organization interactions in X using social network analysis. A quantitative descriptive method was adopted, and the unit analysis was the #promo-bri hashtag. Data were collected and processed using social network analysis with Netlytic and visualized using Gephi software. The results showed that in X, influential and well-known organization accounts were not necessarily effective in spreading promotional hashtags across the network. Hashtag diffusion was broader when actors engaged in conversation and acted as bridges that connected multiple communities. Based on the Strength of Weak Ties theory, social media promotion also needs to focus on the weak ties, which provided bridges that expand across communities and made the campaign more efficient. The result of this study showed the importance of organizations using influencers or actors who were credible and actively interacted with other communities, as well as managed the social network to enhance reach.
This research paper examines the relationship between framing options and the outcomes of intercultural negotiations among working professionals in the Klang Valley, Malaysia. Based on the Framing Theory and the Cultural Dimensions developed by Hofstede, the study focuses on three forms of framing strategies, namely, gain-loss framing, issue framing and emotional-rational framing, in which gender serves as a moderating factor. The study followed a quantitative research design that relied on a self-administered questionnaire that was sent using the Microsoft Forms. The stratified sampling was used to provide proportional representation of gender and professional sectors, thus making 451 valid responses. The survey used four-point Likert scale, which ensured the content validity and reliability of the instruments. Data was analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics and PROCESS Macro, and includes descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression and moderation analysis. The results show that the three framing strategies have great effect on the outcome of intercultural negotiation. Emotional-rational framing was the most significant predictor (0.845, p =.001) and it reflects the importance of the need to combine logic and emotion sensitivity in a negotiation situation. Moreover, gender was observed to have a significant moderation between framing strategies and negotiation outcomes (p < .05) with female workers being more responsive to such strategies than their male counterparts. Altogether, the research points to the relevance of emotional-based and cognitively-oriented communication strategies in increasing the effectiveness of negotiation in culturally diverse working settings.
This study explores how social media shapes the digital identities of Generation Z in Turkey, using Manuel Castells' Network Society theory as a framework. The study tested two hypotheses: (1) social media influences digital self-representation; (2) social approval through likes and comments increases self-esteem and social acceptance. A mixed-methods approach was used: a structured questionnaire captured quantitative data, while open-ended questions were employed to explore participants' experiences and perspectives as qualitative data. The survey involved 71 students from the Faculty of Communication at Kocaeli University, selected purposively for their active social media use. Quantitative data, collected through a structured questionnaire, revealed that the use of social media has no significant effect on digital self-representation (p = 0.708), contrary to the hypothesis. However, online social validation through likes and comments has a significant effect on self-esteem (p < 0.01). Qualitative data further revealed that participants actively curate idealized versions of themselves on social media, balancing authenticity with aspirations. Many expressed how likes and comments directly influence their confidence and sense of belonging. This study provides insight into the empowering aspects as well as the challenges of social media, emphasizing the need for digital literacy to manage its psychological impact. These findings provide important insights into the role of social media in identity formation, as well as offering recommendations for the world of education, mental health professionals, and policymakers.