Virtual space and social media studies

Virtual space and social media studies

A Sociological Analysis of the Influence of Social Media on the Formation of Youth Social Identity: A Case Study of University Students in Songhor.

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Jamal Mohammadi 1
Azita Farahnaki 2
Sorour Allahweisi 3
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
2 M.A. in Sociology, Director, Technology Incubator Center of Songhor and Kolyai County, Kermanshah, Iran
3 M.A. Student in Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
10.22083/cssms.2025.542202.1071
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the impact of social networks on the formation of social identity among young people, focusing on students. Today, in the field of cyberspace studies, due to the undeniable effects of this space on the meaning-making, identification, and communication processes of users, analyzing the contexts, mechanisms, and consequences of these effects is of great importance. Sanghar County, with its predominantly young population and the presence of several active academic units, is a valuable example for studying this phenomenon; especially since its demographic composition and cultural conditions can reveal specific patterns of online interactions and identity formation. Despite the significant volume of research globally, in Iran, and especially in local cultural contexts, there are still important gaps. Most studies have either examined the overall effects of social networks or have focused solely on psychological consequences, without addressing the multifaceted dimensions of social identity. Sonqor County, with its predominantly young population and the presence of several active university units, is a valuable example for studying this phenomenon; especially since its demographic composition and cultural conditions can reveal specific patterns of online interactions and identity formation. Accordingly, the main purpose of this study is to analyze the effects of cyberspace on the social identity of university students in Sonqor City. 
The research method was designed and implemented as a survey using a structured questionnaire consisting of four sections (demographic information, amount and type of use of social networks, dimensions of social identity, and challenges and opportunities). The statistical population included a number of students from Songor universities, and stratified random sampling was performed. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including correlation tests and comparative analysis.
The results showed that there is a positive and significant relationship between the amount of use of social networks and various dimensions of social identity - including a sense of belonging, social acceptance, and self-expression. It was also found that although these spaces provide opportunities for the development of social capital and cultural interactions, they can also cause challenges such as identity crisis and reduced adherence to indigenous values. The findings of this research can help policymakers and cultural managers in designing educational and media programs tailored to the needs of young people. The findings of this study emphasize the dual and transformative role of social networks in the formation of the social identity of participating students. On the one hand, these spaces provide opportunities to strengthen the sense of belonging, promote self-expression, expand communication, and increase social awareness; and on the other hand, they also bring challenges such as social anxiety, identity crisis, and reduced self-confidence. These results show that the impact of social networks on social identity is neither purely positive nor entirely negative, but multidimensional and dependent on the way of use, the type of interactions, and the content consumed. Accordingly, the findings provide valuable insights for educational policymakers, cultural managers, and researchers to develop balanced strategies to maximize the benefits and reduce the negative effects of these spaces. The findings of this study also provide deep insights into the multidimensional role of social networks in the formation of the dimensions of the social identity of participating students. Analysis of data collected from 300 students and comparison with national and international research evidence suggests that these platforms can simultaneously foster social relationships, self-expression, and awareness, while also posing significant psychological and behavioral challenges. These results highlight the dual nature of social networks and emphasize the need for balanced, evidence-based educational policies and programs. 
The results of statistical analyses emphasize that the intensity and direction of these effects depend on the usage pattern, the type of content consumed, and the level of media literacy skills of users. This means that targeted, balanced, and informed use of social networks can enhance positive effects and reduce potential harms. This is in line with evidence from domestic and foreign research that has emphasized the pivotal role of media literacy and conscious management of online presence in improving the quality of social interactions. Given the duality of opportunities and threats, it is essential that educational policymakers, cultural managers, and youth activists develop comprehensive strategies for the responsible use of social networks. These strategies can include systematic training in media literacy skills, creating local platforms with rich content that is appropriate for national culture, and strengthening psychological and social support to reduce negative effects. In addition, holding workshops and interactive programs among students, professors, and communication professionals can help raise awareness and empower users in managing their social identity. From a research perspective, this study, focusing on the student community of a specific city, has explained the pattern of influence of social networks in the local socio-cultural context. However, future research on more diverse samples, comparisons between different cities, and qualitative analysis of users’ lived experiences can provide a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of influence of this phenomenon. 
Keywords
Cyberspace
identity
social capital
sense of belonging
challenges and opportunities
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Virtual space and social media studies
Volume 2, Issue 3 - Serial Number 7
Summer 2025
Pages 159-196

  • Receive Date 19 August 2025
  • Revise Date 25 September 2025
  • Accept Date 05 October 2025
  • First Publish Date 05 October 2025
  • Publish Date 23 September 2025