Literacy Program Research Articles

Transforming Afghanistan: Enhancing Technology Access to Overcome Gender Discrimination

Gender disparity in technology access and empowerment remains a significant challenge in Afghanistan, particularly for women facing socio-cultural barriers. This study explores the perceptions of Afghan women regarding technology access and empowerment at Kabul University. Despite advancements in technology, Afghan women encounter obstacles in accessing and utilizing technological resources, limiting their opportunities for education, employment, and economic empowerment. This research aims to investigate the perceptions of Afghan women regarding technology access and empowerment, with a focus on identifying barriers and opportunities for improvement. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Kabul University, involving 150 participants from diverse fields of education/employment and age groups. Structured surveys were administered electronically to collect data on participants' perceptions of technology access and empowerment. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. The analysis revealed diverse perceptions among Afghan women regarding technology access and empowerment, with significant disparities in infrastructure accessibility and the effectiveness of digital literacy programs. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address barriers and enhance technology access and empowerment for Afghan women, ultimately promoting gender equity and socio-economic development.

Indonesia's Digital Economic Policy To Increase Economic Resilience

The growth of information and communication technology (ICT) has changed the way people live their lives and conduct business. The era of the Industrial Revolution 4.0, characterized by the use of digital technology and the Internet of Things (IoT), has created a new economic environment known as the “digital economy." In this context, digital economy policy becomes very important to support sustainable economic growth and improve national economic resilience. This research aims to analyze Indonesia's digital economy policy in developing the digital economy in the context of Society 5.0 and Industrial Revolution 4.0. The main focus of the research is how government policies can strengthen the national economy. This research uses a descriptive-qualitative method with secondary data collected through a systematic review. Data were collected from various scholarly sources, including relevant journals, research publications, reports, and websites. This qualitative approach generates descriptive notes and data that are integrated into the text for further analysis. When policies are implemented correctly, that is, by paying attention to and realizing the various aspects that have an impact on the policy implementation process, it will produce the maximum benefits, including the Integration, Interactivity, Transparency, Control, and Accountability (IITCA) factors. The research shows that digital economy policies have a significant positive impact on economic growth and resilience. The implementation of the Digital Economic Agreement Framework (DEFA) is expected to strengthen the MSME sector, attract investment, encourage innovation, increase productivity, and create high-quality jobs. The establishment of the Digital Innovation and Sustainable Economy Center (DISC) also plays an important role in supporting the transformation of businesses and organizations towards a sustainable digital economy. In addition, the Indonesian government has improved digital infrastructure, such as 4G networks, 5G technology, and low-earth orbit satellites, and launched digital literacy and skills programs to reduce the digital divide and strengthen economic resilience. An effective digital economy policy can be a powerful instrument to strengthen a country's economic resilience. Research results confirm that the implementation of digital economy policies not only drives economic growth but also improves social and financial inclusion. Collaboration between the public sector, the business world, and civil society is essential for the successful implementation of this policy. In addition, transparency and accountability in the implementation of digital policies, such as through the use of blockchain technology and digital payment systems, can reduce corruption and ensure that government assistance and support are well-targeted. Overall, digital economy policies play an important role in strengthening national economic resilience amid the challenges and opportunities of the digital era.

Understanding the Learning Experiences of Low-Income Midwest Rural Latinx Youth During COVID-19: A Culturally Responsive Approach

ABSTRACT While research acknowledged the challenges faced by students during the COVID-19 pandemic, a critical gap existed in understanding the specific experiences of low-income Latinx youth. This study explored how these students navigated the transition to remote learning through a culturally responsive critical literacy program that incorporated their cultural backgrounds and lived experiences into the learning process. Findings from nine rural Latinx youth revealed a lack of motivation and anxieties surrounding both the remote learning format and the economic hardships their families faced due to the pandemic. Despite these challenges, strong community and family support (bridging & bonding) emerged as a crucial factor in fostering resilience. This research underscores the importance of culturally responsive pedagogy (CRP) that validates Latinx culture and knowledge. It argues against standardized curricula, advocating for a re-envisioned CRP that integrates community-driven initiatives and prioritizes language considerations. Implications for practice are provided.

Improving Health Literacy of Migrants in Language Courses – Lessons Learned from a Qualitative Textbook Analysis

Health literacy (HL) programs for vulnerable groups with low HL, e.g., migrants and refugees, have been proposed to reduce health inequalities. Adult basic education and second language courses (SLC) are considered particularly important and effective. However, empirical evidence on the process of HL promotion in SLC is scarce. This study aimed to advance the understanding of HL promotion by analyzing SLC materials, deriving best practices, and informing innovative HL promotion programs. We conducted a scoping study, including a systematic literature search in seven academic databases and a grey literature search. We identified 21 manuals as eligible and qualitatively analyzed their content, theories, didactic-methodological principles, and the relationship between language and health. There are numerous, multifaceted ways to promote HL in SLC. Curricula cover various health topics, prioritizing situations in the doctor’s office, nutrition, and physical activity, others even mental and social health. Theories from three disciplines are drawn upon, and numerous methods target language skills: receptive, productive, interactive, and even advocacy skills. Three main approaches emerged: language for, information about, and skills for health, which are uniquely linked in each manual. No other educational setting is as far-reaching, innovative, and promising as SLC when implemented thoroughly by interdisciplinary teams.

The invisible cohort: Reporting of students with disability in the national assessment program for literacy and numeracy

The National Assessment Program for Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is intended to assess all Australian students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 to ensure equity and inclusion. This paper explores the extent to which equity and inclusion are achieved for students with disability through NAPLAN reporting. Document analysis of publicly accessible NAPLAN reports, technical reports, handbooks and protocols was conducted to evaluate how this cohort is represented in NAPLAN reports. This paper demonstrates the paucity of NAPLAN reporting about students with disability. It highlights opportunities for NAPLAN data from this cohort to be reported and used to inform educational decisions at all levels (teachers, schools, systems and parents) for students with disability.

Factors Affecting Share Traders' Investment Decisions: Investigating the Psychological, Social, and Economic Factors That Influence Share Traders' Investment Choices and Risk Tolerance

Deep Dive into Share Trader Decision-Making: A Psychological, Social, and Economic Exploration This research delves into the intricate world of share trader decision-making, specifically focusing on the interplay between psychology, social dynamics, and economic factors. It aims to shed light on how these multifaceted influences shape investment choices and risk tolerance, particularly among the burgeoning generation of young adult traders (Gen Z).  Beyond Rationality: the Behavioral Dimension Investment decisions are often depicted as exercises in cold, calculated logic. However, the field of behavioral finance challenges this notion, highlighting the significant role of psychological biases. This study builds upon this established knowledge by exploring how these psychological factors, along with social and economic considerations, converge to influence trading decisions and risk tolerance within the Gen Z demographic.  Methodology: Unveiling the Underlying Factors To gather valuable insights, the study will employ a survey methodology utilizing a five-point Likert scale questionnaire. Disseminated through social media platforms, the survey aims to capture data from a broad range of participants. The primary target audience will be Gen Z respondents (aged 18-21), with a subset of participants from older generations included for comparative analysis. The questionnaire will be meticulously crafted to assess psychological factors (e.g., overconfidence, fear of missing out), social influences (e.g., peer pressure, online communities), economic considerations (e.g., market trends, interest rates), and risk tolerance.  Hypotheses: A Framework for Understanding The study proposes a set of four core hypotheses to guide the investigation:  Psychological Influence: Psychological factors, such as overconfidence or anchoring bias, significantly impact share traders' investment decisions.  Social Dynamics in Play: Social factors, including group dynamics and the influence of online communities, exert a substantial influence on share traders' decisions.  Economic Considerations as a Guidepost: Economic factors, encompassing market trends, interest rates, and company performance, provide valuable guidance for share traders' decision-making processes.  The Moderating Effect of Initial Trades: Initial trade decisions act as a moderator, influencing the relationship between the aforementioned factors and an individual's risk tolerance.  Data Analysis: Unveiling the Relationships The collected data will be meticulously analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) software like SPSS AMOS. This powerful technique allows researchers to delve deeper by evaluating:  Confirmatory Factor Analysis: This analysis technique assesses the strength and validity of the relationships between the observed variables (survey questions) and the underlying latent variables (psychological factors, social factors, etc.). It essentially confirms that the survey questions are effectively capturing the intended constructs.  Path Coefficients: Path coefficients quantify the direct effects of each factor (psychological, social, economic) on risk tolerance. Additionally, the analysis will explore whether initial trade decisions moderate these effects, meaning they influence the strength of the relationship between the factors and risk tolerance.  Expected Outcomes: Illuminating the Path Forward This research aspires to achieve the following key outcomes:Demystifying Decision-Making: Identify the relative influence of psychological, social, and economic factors on Gen Z share traders' decisions.  Understanding Risk Tolerance: Elucidate how these factors interact and contribute to the development of risk tolerance among young adult investors.  Empowering Traders: Equip individual traders with valuable insights to bolster their decision-making processes and risk management strategies.  Informing Financial Literacy: Provide insights for policymakers and educators to design financial literacy programs and regulations that cater to the specific needs and preferences of young adult investors.  Acknowledging Limitations: A Call for Further Exploration The study acknowledges inherent limitations, such as the potential for self-reported bias in survey responses. Additionally, the initial focus on a specific age group (Gen Z) within a limited geographical area (India) necessitates further research to explore potential cultural and demographic variations in financial decision-making. This research serves as a springboard for future investigations, paving the way for a more comprehensive understanding of the nuanced interplay between psychological, social, and economic factors in shaping financial decision-making across diverse demographics and cultural contexts.

No child left behind, literacy challenges ahead: a focus on the Philippines

The Sustainable Development Goal 4 has commenced a global mandate to provide equitable access to quality education for everyone. In the Philippines, SDG 4 inaugurates the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Policy. This brief argues that while the NCLB has ensured equal access to quality literacy education, it poses socioeconomic-based challenges, declining rate of parental involvement in their children’s schooling, overemphasis on standardized tests, and the lack of community involvement towards literacy programs. The Holistic Literacy Enhancement Program (HLEP) is proposed in this paper to help address these challenges to NCLB. HLEP presents policy implications that could assist the NCLB in more efficient and effective implementation: equitable resource allocation, parental and community engagement, and culturally and linguistically relevant assessment tools.

Determining the Effects of Inflation on the Cost of Living of the Selected Residents in Barangay One, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental

This study aimed to investigate the effects of inflation on the cost of living among residents of Barangay One in San Carlos. The primary objectives of this study were to identify the impact of inflation on the purchasing power of selected residents, assess changes in lifestyle and standard of living, and raise awareness of inflation within a specific barangay. The study employed descriptive research methods, including a survey, to gather rich and detailed insights into the experiences and perspectives of residents regarding inflation’s effects on their cost of living. The findings of this study contribute to a better understanding of the specific effects of inflation on the cost of living in the context of Barangay One. This research revealed the extent to which inflation influenced residents’ purchasing power, resulting in changes in lifestyle and standard of living. Moreover, the study highlights the need for increased awareness of inflation among community members and emphasizes the importance of local officials actively addressing the economic conditions of the barangay. Based on these findings, this research proposes sustainable solutions to assist Barangay One in mitigating the negative impacts of inflation. These solutions include implementing financial literacy programs and fostering community- based initiatives to enhance economic resilience.

(Im)migrant women’s translingual literacy practices as problem-solving and learning resources: perspectives from a community-based English literacy program

ABSTRACT This paper calls for an expansion of translingual studies to include the examination of learners beyond university contexts to further our understanding of translingual literacies and practices. The authors present findings from a larger ethnographic study about practices and repertoires that (im)migrant women mobilize and employ when learning how to write in a community-based English literacy program. The study provides insights into the intersections of their identities as mothers and professionals and their literacy learning. Findings show how these women drew on diverse modalities and literacies to navigate new conventions for writing and challenges they face as (im)migrants in the United States, illustrating how their practices are linked to their professional and gendered identities. The findings illustrate the need to expand translingual studies to further theorize multilingual lives, language learning, and literacy practices cultivated in non-traditional education programs.

Alfabetización en salud en cáncer de próstata: ¿qué saben los varones españoles sobre el cáncer de próstata? Estudio descriptivo transversal

IntroductionProstate cancer is the tumor with the highest incidence in Spanish men. The implementation of health literacy and therapeutic education programs adapted to the needs of the population could be a resource to minimize the sequelae derived from the treatments used to combat this pathology. To this end, it would be necessary to know the level of health literacy about prostate cancer. ObjectiveTo determine the level of health literacy in prostate cancer in the Spanish male population using the validated version of the PCKQ-12 for the Spanish population. MethodologyCross-sectional, population-based, descriptive study. Spanish-speaking men of legal age were included. To carry out the study, an ad hoc questionnaire was designed on the Google Forms platform, which was distributed via WhatsApp. Previously, it was necessary to validate the PCKQ-12 to the Spanish population in 2phases, a first phase for translation and cross-cultural adaptation and a second phase to test the measurement properties. ResultsThe Spanish version of the PCKQ-12 showed good language, conceptual, semantic and content equivalence and could be used to assess health literacy in prostate cancer. Three hundred and seventy Spanish men with a mean age of 43.87 (SD 13.65) years responded to the questionnaire. The level of prostate cancer health literacy found was low (6.72 points), being 2 points higher in health men. ConclusionHealth literacy about prostate cancer in the Spanish male population is low.

Health literacy in prostate cancer: What do Spanish men know about prostate cancer? A cross-sectional descriptive study

IntroductionProstate cancer is the tumor with the highest incidence in Spanish men. The implementation of health literacy and therapeutic education programs adapted to the needs of the population could be a resource to minimize the sequelae derived from the treatments used to combat this pathology. To this end, it would be necessary to know the level of health literacy about prostate cancer. ObjectiveTo determine the level of health literacy in prostate cancer in the Spanish male population using the validated version of the PCKQ-12 for the Spanish population. MethodologyCross-sectional, population-based, descriptive study. Spanish-speaking men of legal age were included. To carry out the study, an ad hoc questionnaire was designed on the Google Forms platform, which was distributed via WhatsApp. Previously, it was necessary to validate the PCKQ-12 to the Spanish population in two phases, a first phase for translation and cross-cultural adaptation and a second phase to test the measurement properties. ResultsThe Spanish version of the PCKQ-12 showed good language, conceptual, semantic and content equivalence and could be used to assess health literacy in prostate cancer. Three hundred and seventy Spanish men with a mean age of 43.87 (SD 13.65) years responded to the questionnaire. The level of prostate cancer health literacy found was low (6.72 points), being 2 points higher in health men. ConclusionHealth literacy about prostate cancer in the Spanish male population is low.

AI in oncology: Resident perspectives by gender and tech literacy.

9055 Background: The integration of AI and ML in oncology demands that physicians adapt and grasp the basics for responsible use. We evaluated AI knowledge and perspectives among Canadian oncology residents, noting differences by program, gender, and tech literacy, and pinpointing education gaps. Methods: An ethics-approved survey collected anonymous responses from Canadian oncology residents, analyzing gender, program, and tech skills. Descriptive statistics, cross-tabs, and chi-square tests assessed associations; t-tests and Mann-Whitney tests compared groups. Results: A total of 57 (31%) residents and fellows, out of an estimated 182, participated, with representation from each oncology training program in Canada. Most of participants were male (63.2%) and most participants self-identified as white (42.1%) or Asian (22.8%). RO programs were better represented than MO programs (68.5% vs 31.6%) with balanced representation across all years of training. In our survey, women equally favored Medical Oncology (MO) and Radiation Oncology (RO) at 50%, but were more in MO (55.6%) than RO (26.3%). Men preferred RO (77.8%) over MO (22.2%). Tech literacy showed a gender gap, with more men (91.7%) feeling tech-savvy than women (8.3%). Tech-savvy respondents leaned towards RO (84%) and were younger (30 vs 33 years). They also showed more willingness to use AI, with a significant difference in willingness scores (1.52 vs 2.06). Despite gender not influencing AI attitudes significantly, tech literacy correlated with better AI understanding. High awareness of AI in medicine was reported (91.2%), with a strong belief in AI's future prevalence (96%). The majority were willing to use AI (86%) and recognized the need to understand it (74%). RO participants were more inclined towards AI education and usage than MO counterparts. The study highlighted a significant interest in AI learning (73%), with a preference for workshops (79%). Only 29% could describe AI, indicating a gap in AI education, despite 63% acknowledging its importance in training. Formal AI training was rare (12.3%), with a desire for more education, especially among RO residents. All findings had p<0.05. Conclusions: Canadian oncology residents anticipate AI's growing influence in medicine but face educational deficiencies. Gender, program preference, and tech literacy impact attitudes toward AI, highlighting the need for inclusive education to bridge gaps and foster diversity in AI's medical application.

LITERASI DIGITAL, MEMBEKALI ANAK DENGAN KEMAMPUAN DIGITAL

In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, digital literacy becomes crucial in facing rapid technological changes. The digital literacy program at the "Istana Yatim Al-Jufri" Orphanage aims to enhance children's understanding and digital skills. Through training, interaction with parents, and the use of interactive learning resources, this program creates a safe learning environment in the digital age. Periodic evaluations are conducted to ensure the program's effectiveness, while collaboration with universities and communities helps enrich this initiative. This abstract also underscores the importance of digital literacy in addressing the negative impacts of the internet, such as the spread of hoaxes and unhealthy internet behavior. The community service activities organized by the Information Systems Study Program of the University of Batam and Universiti Teknologi Mara Cawangan Johor Malaysia aim to enhance the digital literacy of children and adolescents, focusing on wise and productive use of digital technology. In conclusion, the digital literacy program at the Orphanage has successfully increased understanding and community support for digital literacy, with recommendations to continue developing the program and increasing parental participation and digital access in the orphanage.

Addressing the effectiveness of health literacy programs within the Gulf Corporation Council: an integrative review.

Health literacy is an increasingly required need to help individuals, families and communities manage their health and health conditions. It is linked with better self-adherence to treatments, use of resources, access to care and overall reduced costs in healthcare. In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which comprises Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, various health literacy programs are implemented across states to address people's unique and complex healthcare needs. This article aims to examine the current literature and assess the factors that influence the outcomes of health literacy programs within the GCC. An integrative review methodology has been conducted to pursue a comprehensive understanding of health literacy interventions in the GCC. This investigative approach was shaped by Whittemore and Knafl's framework (2005), which includes problem identification, literature search, data evaluation, data analysis and presentation. The literature on the effectiveness of health literacy interventions and the factors that shape them are notably limited worldwide and within the GCC region. This integrative review addresses this knowledge gap and highlights the significance of key themes such as sessions, evaluation and improvement in shaping health literacy outcomes within the GCC region. Through this integrative review, the three main themes of sessions, evaluation and improvement were identified as influencing the outcomes of health literacy programs within the GCC.

Ethical Governance of Artificial Intelligence: Guiding Youth towards Responsible Digital Citizenship

AI has become an integral part of our daily lives, and with this integration comes significant ethical considerations, particularly for younger individuals. This policy paper delves into AI's ethical challenges and the need to guide young people in the digital realm. The swift incorporation of AI-driven tools in education, social media, and entertainment has sparked debates on data privacy, algorithm bias, and misrepresentation. Given the susceptibility of young people to these influences, it is imperative to equip them with tailored ethical guidelines for responsible interaction with AI systems. The paper proposes a comprehensive framework to promote ethical AI use through digital literacy, critical thinking, and ethics awareness among the youth. By fostering responsible AI consumption, we empower the next generation to make informed privacy choices and counter platform manipulation. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the need for collaboration between educators, policymakers, technology developers, and parents to establish concrete ethical guidelines and school AI literacy programs. It underscores the importance of robust policies around AI technologies, advocating for ethical design and deployment to serve young people better. The goal is to foster an ethical digital environment that respects and nurtures children, allowing them to thrive in an AI-driven society.

Program Literasi Informasi di Sekolah Polisi Negara Hinai Polisi Daerah Sumatera Utara

This research aims to (1) evaluate the efforts made by the North Sumatra Regional Police Hinai State Police School Library in the information literacy program, (2) assess the results achieved by students from the information literacy program, and (3) identify inhibiting factors in the implementation of the information literacy program in the library of the North Sumatra Police Hinai State Police School. The research method used was qualitative with a descriptive approach, using interview techniques, and research subjects were selected through purposive sampling. The results of the research show that the information literacy program in the North Sumatra Regional Police Hinai State Police School library has produced various activity programs, such as a 15 minute reading program every two weeks and reading awards. SPN Hinai North Sumatra Regional Police students are able to understand and utilize information from the library for DIKTUBA (Non-Commissioned Officer Education) POLRI assignments. Obstacles in implementing the program include a lack of media and human resources skilled in information literacy as well as a lack of adequate facilities and infrastructure.

Optimizing Digital Financial Data: Enhancing Business Decision Making in the Indian Scenario

The study aims to explore challenges hindering inclusive access to digital financial inclusion (DFI) in the Indian financial sector, focusing on the role of automation in financial decision-making support systems. It also seeks to assess the impact of digital technologies on corporate financial performance and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations. Descriptive research methodology was conducted to analyse challenges affecting inclusive access to DFI, with a sample size of 388 participants from major financial institutions in Mysore city. Primary data was collected through structured questionnaires, and secondary data was obtained from relevant literature and reports. Statistical methods including ANOVA were employed for data analysis. The analysis revealed non-significant differences in digital literacy programs and technological infrastructure among banks, highlighting a uniform approach and the need for standardized development. Significant variation was observed in gender-based challenges, emphasizing the necessity for tailored initiatives. Non-significant differences in automation adoption and system usage imply a consistent approach across banks, though further investigation is warranted. Borderline significance in stakeholder perception suggests diverse opinions, requiring proactive management during digital transformation. The study underscores the importance evaluations and collective efforts to address challenges hindering inclusive access to digital financial services in India. While certain aspects exhibit consistency, targeted interventions are needed to foster inclusivity and maximize the potential of digital technologies. Future research should explore stakeholder perceptions and influencing factors behind automation adoption trends to enhance understanding of digital financial inclusion dynamics in India.

A Literacy Program in Increasing of Reading Interest and Children Creativity at Tempurejo Village by Collaborative KKN 045 Jember

The Collaborative Real Work Lecture Program (KKN-K) is a form of activity carried out to provide students with learning experiences in social life so that they can help local communities and villages. The KKN-K activities carried out by KKN-K 045 students have a literacy theme called 'Gemilang' or the Inspiring Reading Movement and Brilliant Literacy. The aim of establishing Gemilang activities is to increase interest in reading and foster creativity for the children of Tempurejo Village. This literacy activity was carried out in three places, namely MI Miftahul Ulum, Al-Muna Civilization House, and TPQ Izzatul Qur'an, Tempurejo Village, Jember Regency. The method used during the activity was field observation. Through literacy development activities for the children of Tempurejo Village, especially kindergarten and elementary school age, it is hoped that this will increase their interest in reading and develop children's creativity.

The Impact of the Principal's Leadership on the Role of Teachers in Implementing School Literacy Activities

The Indonesian government has made significant efforts to enhance literacy at the elementary school level as a foundational aspect of students' educational development and to foster a culture of reading and writing from an early age. This research aims to understand literacy activities in elementary schools to impact students' interest and instill character by studying reading, writing, and cultural literacy. Specifically, the research seeks to determine the impact of principals' leadership on teachers' roles in implementing school literacy activities. Using a qualitative approach, the study's results demonstrate that the leadership of school principals in Cluster VI, Kota Bahagia District, South Aceh, significantly influences the implementation of school literacy programs. Principals with positive personalities, adequate knowledge, a strong understanding of the vision and mission, good decision-making abilities, and effective communication skills are able to support and facilitate teachers in literacy implementation. Literacy is crucial for elementary school students as it enables them to read well, write, listen, and understand the diverse cultures of Indonesia, instilling cultural character from an early age.

Impact of Social Media Usage on Body Image Perception among Adolescents in Malawi

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of social media usage on body image perception among adolescents in Malawi. Materials and Methods: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Exposure to idealized images and content often leads to body dissatisfaction and lower self-esteem. Adolescents frequently compare themselves to the highly curated and often edited images they see online, which can create unrealistic expectations and negative self-perception. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced among young girls, who are more likely to internalize societal beauty standards perpetuated by social media. Additionally, the constant feedback loop of likes and comments can exacerbate concerns about appearance, leading to issues such as anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. However, study suggest that positive social media interactions and exposure to body-positive content can mitigate these negative effects, highlighting the nuanced relationship between social media and body image. Overall, while social media offers opportunities for connection and self-expression, it also poses significant risks to adolescents' body image and mental health. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social comparison theory, objectification theory and uses and gratifications theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the impact of social media usage on body image perception among adolescents in Malawi. Educational institutions should implement media literacy programs that equip adolescents with critical thinking skills to navigate social media content effectively. Policymakers and regulatory bodies should work with social media platforms to enforce content moderation policies that restrict the promotion of harmful content related to body image, such as extreme dieting, beauty stereotypes, and body shaming.