EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS: A STUDY OF DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

This study examines the effects of Social media on personal relationships of the Delta State University students The study adopted the survey method,, using the questionnaire instrument to elicit the responses of students concerning the effects of Social media on personal relationships. The population of the study was the entire registered undergraduate students of the Abraka campus given as 18768 in the 2015/2016 session by Delta State University ICT Unit. A multi stage sampling approach was used to administer the study instrument to three hundred and eighty four respondents on a person-to-person basis with a return rate of 94% .The Technological Determinism and Uses and Gratifications theories were the theoretical anchors of the study. Data collected were analyzed using frequency tables, percentages and explanation. Findings included students of the Delta State University used the Social media in their personal relationships almost to the point of addiction; technology affects cultural and social change among Nigerian students and the possession and ability to use Social media network s sites is the beginning of being a bona-fide member of the elite group of students. One recommendation of the study was that it was imperative for students to understand the need to invest and utilize their time in school well in order to avoid falling prey to 'evil geniuses' who often take advantage of unwaryand impressionable students.