Influence of Social Media Algorithms on the Perspective of Pakistani Youth
Keywords:
Social Media Algorithms, Filter Bubbles, Echo Chambers, Content Personalization, Digital Media Literacy.Abstract
Usage of social media forums such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and You Tube has increased exponentially during last decade particularly among youth. It is influencing the way youth engage with the information and formation of their personality. Algorithms play a crucial role in this process of information engagement by organizing content which is tailored according to the individual’s past preferences, interactions and behaviors. This study explores the perspective of Pakistani youth that how algorithms shape their social, political and psychological experiences by personalization of content. The research follows a mixed method approach, by combining quantitative survey and qualitative interviews to explore how Pakistani youth perceive the influence of these algorithms. Moreover, this study also examines the formation of echo-chamber and filter bubbles where the content reinforces existing views and limit the exposure to diverse perspectives. This research highlights the psychological and social impacts of algorithmic content and its political implications such as polarization and spread of misinformation. Finally, the study offers recommendations for improving transparency in algorithm’s driven content, promoting diverse content and digital media literacy to mitigate the negative effects of social media algorithms on youth.
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