Social Media political Activities, Political Efficacy and Political Participation among Pakistani Youth: A Quantitative Study of Online Political Activism

Abstract

The swift growth of social media has significantly transformed the sphere in which youth engage with political figures, acquire political knowledge, effectively express their beliefs, and engage in civic activities. In Pakistan, where a considerable segment of the population is comprised of young individuals, social media platforms have progressively risen in importance for political engagement and conversation. This research examines the relationships between political efficacy, political involvement, and the use of social media by Pakistani youth for political objectives. This quantitative research employed a survey methodology to gather data from 500 students attending seven chosen public universities in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. The research examines the correlation between youths' engagement with political-related content and behavior on social media and their political efficacy and increased participation. Descriptive and correlational statistics were employed to analyze the interrelationships between variables. The results indicate a significant correlation between political efficacy and engagement in political activities through social media, with a strong association between political efficacy and political participation. Social media has established a dynamic medium for Pakistani youth to learn about politics, increase their political efficacy, and participate.