Abstract
The rapid growth of social media platforms has significantly transformed the way individual’s access information and express opinions. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube have become influential tools for communication, information dissemination, and public engagement. This study examines the role of social media in shaping public opinion among users. A descriptive research design was adopted, and data were collected from 160 respondents using a structured questionnaire. The study investigates how social media influences political views, social awareness, and public perception of current events. The findings reveal that a large proportion of respondents rely on social media as a primary source of information and frequently engage in discussions that influence their opinions. However, concerns regarding misinformation, biased content, and echo chambers were also identified. The study concludes that while social media plays a significant role in shaping public opinion, critical media literacy and responsible digital engagement are essential to ensure informed decision-making among users.
Keywords: Social Media, Public Opinion, Digital Communication, Media Influence, Online Engagement, Information Dissemination
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