Effect of digital interaction and networking on social participation and cohesion

Abstract

Young people's participatory cultures and social networks have been profoundly impacted by the quick development and ongoing evolution of digital technology and social media platforms.  Since digital technologies both improve social connection and create inequalities in access to participation, this junction of the social and digital spheres poses important problems regarding social cohesiveness.  This research presents a qualitative study of 50 Pakistani tertiary students from ethnic minority backgrounds who actively utilize social media in order to investigate this interaction.  The study uses interviews to look into how participants' practices of family and friendship are influenced by their digital possessions. By integrating these concepts, this paper reveals how young university students utilize social media and the extent to which digital interaction and networking affect social participation and cohesion. The conclusion highlights that while digital technologies can enhance feelings of belonging, they also create new expectations and obligations that may confine young people within limited online social networks. We conclude by identifying areas for future research to further enhance our understanding of belonging in an increasingly digital world.