Perceptions of Social Media Impact on Social Behavior of Students: A Comparison between Students and Faculty

Abstract

Social media has become pervasive, impacting the social fabric and culture of our society. This study investigates differences and similarities between students' and faculty's perceptions of social media impact on social behavior of students. Data were collected using a specially designed survey. The sample size was 2605 students and 507 faculty of different genders and ages. Research outcome indicates that students and faculty are familiar with and are immersed in social media use. The findings support the advantages of social media use on students' social behavior and do not indicate any obvious disadvantages. The findings of the study include identification of dominant group perceptions pertaining to advantages and disadvantages of social media use on social behavior of students. Common concerns of the two groups pertaining to students include physical inactivity, social introversion, exposure to bullying and domination attitudes; and mental dullness. These findings can help discern possible issues relating to use of social media affecting social behavior.